Karen Elizabeth Wallis

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Karen Wallis (née Smith), who was born on January 15, 1983, in Richmond, British Columbia, and passed away on January 15, 2026, in Langley, British Columbia, surrounded by the love of her family.

Karen is lovingly remembered by her mother, Deborah Smith, her brother Stephen, and reunited in peace with her late father, Glenn Smith. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her warmth, strength, and unforgettable spirit.

Karen leaves behind her devoted husband, Mike, and her two beautiful daughters, Jordan and Taylor, who were the absolute pride and joy of her life.

Karen had a truly kind and generous soul. Her smile could light up any room, and her presence brought comfort, laughter, and calm to those around her. She was also fiercely competitive in the very best way—driven, determined, and always ready to give her all, whether in sport, in work, or in life.

An athlete her entire life, Karen excelled in soccer, softball, and volleyball, bringing both talent and passion to every team she played on. Her love of sport carried through all stages of her life and became a cornerstone of the life she built with her family.

Karen and Mike first met in 2002, while working together at Save-On-Foods, and from that moment on they were inseparable. Their love was steady, genuine, and built on friendship, loyalty, and laughter—an enduring partnership that shaped everything they shared.

Karen played soccer at the University of the Fraser Valley, where she also completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She went on to become an exceptional Registered Nurse, respected and admired for her intelligence, her compassion, and her fierce advocacy for both her patients and her fellow nurses. Karen didn’t just care—she stood up, spoke up, and made sure others were seen, heard, and treated with dignity.

Karen and Mike later moved to Lake Country, BC, where they spent five wonderful years and welcomed their first daughter, Jordan. When the opportunity came to return home to Langley, the town they both grew up in, they embraced it with excitement and gratitude. Not long after, their family grew again with the birth of their second daughter, Taylor.

Karen was a constant presence in the places that mattered most to her family—often found in arenas, ballparks, and gymnasiums, proudly cheering on her girls as they pursued their own athletic passions. She was their biggest fan, their steady support, and their example of what it means to show up with heart.

Karen’s life culminated in a courageous battle with ALS. Even while facing an unimaginably cruel disease, she carried herself with the same grace, dignity, and strength that defined her throughout her life. She remained, always, Karen—loving, brave, and unwavering.

The Wallis family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all of Karen’s friends, family, and colleagues for their love, care, and support during this time. It has truly meant the world to us. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the BC ALS Society in Karen’s name.