It is with profound sadness we announce that Karen Ann Sheppard passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024 with her family by her side.
Karen's warmth, generosity and love of life touched all who knew her. Karen took immense pride in the accomplishments of her children. Her daughter Paige, to whom she was primary caregiver and best friend, gave her great joy. She loved following the ballet career of her daughter Abigail, and couldn’t have been more proud to witness her son James marry the love of his life.
Karen connected deeply with her Finnish heritage, which inspired years of extensive genealogical research and significant contributions to Finnish ancestral records. She loved her numerous trips to Finland, enabling her to forge relationships with her distant Finnish relatives.
Closer to home, Karen’s happiest times were spent with her family, and her little dog Aino, at the family camp on Lake Nipigon. Karen’s friends held great value in her life, and she especially cherished the lifelong friendships she cultivated for over 50 years.
Karen will be lovingly remembered by Robert Sheppard, son James (Lisa), daughters Paige and Abigail (Valtteri), siblings Carey Johnson (Gwen), Raymond Johnson (Elizabeth), Erin Spencer (Syd) and Rob Johnson, mother Anja Johnson, aunt Barbara Wainikka and husband David, uncle Eddie Rybak, and cousin Sherry Tebbenham (Gord).
Karen was predeceased by her father Raymond Johnson, brother James Johnson, aunt Miriam Rybak, and Michael Doyle.
Special thanks to Dr. Kathy Simpson, Dr. Katrina Ward, and the Palliative Care and Cancer Care teams at the Thunder Bay Regional Hospital. Memorial donations can be sent to Lutheran Community Care or Options Northwest.
A private ceremony for family and close friends will take place at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com
