It is with hearts broken we announce the peaceful passing of our beautiful mother Karen Johnson.
Karen was born August 9, 1946 to parents Raymond and Myrtle Loveday. She was tiny at birth and they were told she may not survive the night. Her fight to live defied the odds and she later showed that same determination as a strong woman and mother.
Karen grew up on the family farm north of Emo. She left home at 17 to attend Marvel Beauty School in Winnipeg and pursue her career as a hair stylist. Her cuts and blowouts were second to none and her clients never left with a hair out of place. Karen worked at several salons and her clientele followed behind. Some of her favourite people were those she worked alongside for 30 years.
Karen raised her 3 girls, mostly as a single mother, with dignity and grace. She was an amazing cook and kept an immaculate home. She was known for her homemade perogies and was in the process of making a batch for Thanksgiving dinner the following day. She also prided herself in creating the most beautiful flowerbeds and vegetable gardens.
Many will remember bowling alongside Karen at Plaza Lanes where she excelled at local, provincial and national levels. This garnered her many awards and trophies and also passed on her love for bowling to her 3 daughters. She made lifelong friendships near and far. WeFest, fishing, Bingo and the occasional trip to the casinos with Rennie were some of her fondest memories.
The coffee pot was always on for anyone who wanted to “Bip” in for a chat, some laughs or a sympathetic ear. You always felt welcome at her kitchen table.
Karen was predeceased by her mother Myrtle in 2015, father Raymond and brother Jerry both in 1989.
Left to mourn are her daughters Brenda Hanzuk (Brad), Carla Hanzuk (Tom) and Annissa Crespeigne (Mike), Grandchildren Carly McKinnon and Griffyn and Carter Crespeigne, sisters Ann Markham and Linda Shannon (Al), sister in law Donna Wood (John), nieces and nephews Mel and Darren Loveday, Lisa Hyatt, Vicki Blanchard, Janelle Markham and families, close friend Rennie Barnard and extended members of the Hanzuk and Johnson families.
Karen’s path in life had challenges but she handled these with courage and strength. The one thing that never wavered was her unconditional love and immense pride for her girls. Karen raised her girls to be strong and independent and they were her greatest accomplishment. Our wish, Mom, is to have one more day, as our lives will never be the same without you here.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Canadian Mental Health association or charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd. Emo, Ontario.
