It is with sadness that we learned that Karen passed away on Monday, June 22, 2020 at the Peterborough Regional Hospital in her 72nd year. Much loved and cherished wife of nearly 50 years to Richard, devoted mother “Mutti” of Heather and Jennifer (Darryl) and much adored Nana to Benjamin and Owen Papke.
Karen dedicated her professional life to the care, support and advocacy of children; starting her career as a nurse at the Hospital for Sick Children (Toronto), later transitioning into the role of an Educational Assistant with the Toronto District School Board. Karen was well known for her ability to find humour in even the hardest of moments and possessed a stubborn streak that she most thoughtfully passed down. She was a knitter of socks, lover of books and the best ‘nurse nana’ that any grandchild could wish for. While she did not have an entirely ‘sunny’ disposition she had a keen ability to break down a difficult situation with her much favoured reminder that – “it’s a small thing…on a big ship”…Karen will most certainly be missed on this ‘big ship’. (Information taken from obituary provided by Community Alternative Funeral Services, Peterborough ON)
Karen will be sadly missed by family, friends and her colleagues.