Karen Jane Gibson

6 October, 1946 – 10 July, 2026

Karen Jane Gibson passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026, at the age of seventy-nine.

Karen was born in Lashburn, Saskatchewan, to Hattie and Fred Kitching—a younger sister for David, Kathleen, and Gordon. Growing up on the farm, Karen developed a love of animals, especially horses—one that remained with her throughout her life and reflected her compassion for all living things. Well into her battle with Alzheimer’s disease, she made regular trips to local stables to groom the horses, ready them for riding, and occasionally rode them herself. Those visits brought her much comfort.

In 1964, Karen moved to Edmonton to pursue nursing training at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. Caring for others became the defining work of her life. She began her career in Red Deer before moving to Winnipeg, where she later returned to nursing after raising her young children, working night shifts at the Rehabilitation Hospital. Eventually she settled back in Edmonton as an RN in a busy clinic, where she became known for her competence, work ethic, and remarkable ability to navigate the strong personality of the surgeon she worked with. Over time, what began as a professional relationship grew into a lasting friendship built on mutual respect.

Later in life, Karen embraced new approaches to healthcare by studying massage therapy and becoming an RMT. She built a successful home practice and found fulfillment in continuing her vocation of compassionate care in a new way.

Karen’s love of animals was one of the great constants of her life. She cherished the many dogs who shared her home and brought her joy over the years: Trixie, Mico, Bosley, Riley, and Coco, along with the many beloved canine companions of her children.

Karen met her husband, Les, in Winnipeg in 1968, and they married in 1970. Over fifty-six years of marriage, they built a rich life that included family, friendships, travel, and music.

Karen developed a keen appreciation for classical music, and she and Les attended hundreds of performances over thirty years of concert-going. She also enjoyed golf—a sport she both loved and occasionally disliked in equal measure—and especially treasured their trips to Hawaii, a place that held a special place in her heart.

More than anything, Karen found her greatest happiness in time spent with family. She loved gathering around a good meal (with good wine!) and enjoying the company of those she loved. In her later years, she found much joy and inspiration in her grandson, Will, whose presence was a precious gift in her life.

Karen is survived by her husband, Les; her daughter, Shari; her son, Greg; her grandson, Will; Will and Declan’s mother, Lorah; her son-in-law, Brian; her sister, Kathleen, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her grandson Declan, her parents, and her brothers, Gordon and David.

In lieu of flowers, donations are gratefully accepted to the Alzheimer Society of Canada or the BC SPCA. The family wishes to thank everyone at the Madison Care Centre, Coquitlam, for their kindness, compassion, and dedication.