September 5, 1956 – September 22, 2013
It is with tremendous sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Karen Ann Richardson on a peaceful September Sunday at her home in Victoria, British Columbia. She leaves to cherish her memory, her parents, George and Tannis Richardson; her sons, Taylor, Fraser and Andrew (Kaitlyn) Somers; her daughter, Tannis Somers; her brothers, David (Pamela) and Hartley (Heather) Richardson; her aunts, Kathleen and Shirley; her dear friend, Bruce Homer; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews and many friends across the country. Karen was predeceased by her sister, Pamela and her grandparents, James and Muriel Richardson and Dr. Paul and Gladys Thorlakson. Karen was born in Winnipeg and attended Balmoral Hall School before she graduated from St. John’s Ravenscourt and studied nursing at the University of Manitoba. Childhood summers at Lake of the Woods, picnics at Bunkie and dancing with her brothers at the Yacht Club dance were some of her most cherished memories. Karen married Frank Somers in 1978 and they lived in Toronto briefly before relocating to Winnipeg where their four children were born. In 1995 the family moved to Victoria. Karen was a deeply caring person, and found her calling lending her time and energy to a vast number of charitable organizations, as well as serving on the Board of her children’s school, Glenlyon-Norfolk. Karen considered her family to be her greatest achievement. She was profoundly proud of her four children, and loved them deeply. Karen was recently joined in life by a wonderful friend, Bruce Homer. They enjoyed travelling, walking along the beach with their dog, Jaeger and watching the sailboats together from the Sunday morning steps. His love and companionship brought her much joy in the past years and her family is grateful for that gift.
A funeral service and celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Thursday, October 3rd at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Church Cathedral in Victoria, British Columbia (Quadra Street at Rockland Avenue) with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada in memory of Karen. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
46 Responses
Jack and I are deeply saddened to learn of your loss and want to extend our sympathy at this difficult time. Remembering the loving times you had with Karen and your recounting of the immense joy that she brought to your lives will resonate with everyone who knew her. Sincerely, Beverly and Jack McJannet.
I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Karen’s passing. I knew her as one of my very favourite parents who would always grace me with her presence at SJR’s infirmary to thank me for caring for one of her sons. She was such a beautiful person inside and out. She was always at the school volunteering and spreading joy with all of the staff she encountered. We all admired her wonderful caring spirit. My heart goes out to her family with deepest sympathy.
SJR School Nurse, 1985-2003
I had the great pleasure of running into Karen a month and a half ago at Butchart Gardens, and can honestly say I knew of no one who was more full of life and joy. What a treat it was to see her, on every occasion, as she spread happiness and sunshine on a truly grand scale. This unbelievable news is a humongous blow to our community, and I send my deepest condolences to her family and close friends. While this is an incalculable loss, Karen’s vivacious smile and generous spirit will undoubtedly linger and warm us forever.
My thoughts are with all of you. I was stunned to see Karen’s photo in the Globe this morning. My mind was flooded with so many memories of a young Karen. That smile! I am so sorry that you have all lost a treasured, loving member of your family so suddenly.
Karen was one of the loveliest people I have ever known, and I cannot even begin to imagine the extent of your grief. Although at the beginning I only knew her as a parent of wonderful boys whom I had the pleasure of teaching at SJR, in later years I considered her a friend. Each time we met up, the joy I felt in her presence was immeasurable. Taylor, Fraser, Andrew and Tannis, your Mom lit up every time she talked to me about you. She loved you so much, and was so proud of you. To the four of you, and everyone in the Richardson family, please accept my most heartfelt sympathy. We will all cherish her memory forever. Know that you are in my prayers.
My deepest condolences to the entire family, and in particular to Bruce, a wonderful man who is in my thoughts at a difficult time. My family will be think of you.
Marius
Dear Tannis, I am so sorry to learn of your mother’s passing. I fondly remember my conversations with her at GNS when you were a student there. I appreciated her kindness and positive energy. Janet Stobie
There are people who just make the world a better place and Karen was one of them. She gave me hope and raised my spirits at a challenging time. She demonstrated grace and kindness and true friendship. I am a better person for knowing Karen and my heart aches for your loss.
Dear Tannis and family:
I am so very sorry for your loss. Hopefully, your happy family memories will sustain you at this extremely sad time.
Laurie Allen
Really sad to hear of the passing of my classmate and friend Karen – my heartfelt condolences to all her family – May she rest in peace.
— Fasahat Beg – SJR Class of ’74, Dubai, UAE