Feb 20, 1940 - Apr 2, 2018
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our mother, sister, grama and dear friend Karen. She had just arrived back to Cranbrook from Ajijic Mexico, where she was a loyal snowbird and cherished member of her community. She was predeceased by her parents Sven and Verna Christianson and sister Fay; her husband John, and granddaughter Grace Beattie.
She is survived by her daughter Christine (Scott) Beattie, granddaughters and grandson Hope, Noa and Fynn Beattie; her son Richard (Kristen) MacDonald and granddaughters Skylar, Makenzie and Sierra; sister Lorraine (John) Johnson and nieces Suzanne and Sally.
Karen loved to travel. Since retiring in 1995, travelling the world and meeting new people had become a constant in her life. She loved to spend time with her family and in particular making memories with her grandkids.
Karen had a varied teaching career with music and choir being major loves. She was very active in the CDTA serving as its president and the Kootenay representative to the BCTF. After her retirement she continued her involvement serving terms as branch president, for the Cranbrook RTA, and on the Heritage and Social Concerns committees, for the British Columbia RTA.
Karen was an avid and competitive bridge player. She achieved her Life Masters and enjoyed her trips to tournaments while earning her points. She was Past Matron of Jubilee Chapter #64 Order of Eastern Star and served as grand organist for the Grand Chapter of BC and Yukon. She was a charter member and past president of Olana Club #16 Daughters of the Nile and Charter member of the local GoGo Grannies. She was a staunch supporter of the Key City Theatre and the Arts Community. Karen was loved by many and will be dearly missed.
A memorial service for Karen will be held at McPherson Funeral Home in Cranbrook on Sunday April 15, 2018 at 2:00 pm. Donations in remembrance of Karen may be made to the: Cranbrook and District Community Foundation, PO Box 242, Cranbrook, BC, V1C 4H8.
We can also accept donations via e-transfer to this email address: Lynnette.wray@cranbrookcf.ca where a scholarship will be set up in Karen's name supporting the things she loved - education, music and arts.
Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.
Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com
McPherson Funeral Service