Kari passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer. Remembered by her students and colleagues of SD61 as Mrs. Reid, Kari was a caring and committed middle school teacher who dedicated her 30-year career to providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment for all her “kids” at school. An avid hiker and adventurous traveller, Kari was known for exploring all corners of the globe with her husband and children on Reid family adventures. She held a deep appreciation for nature and all living things. Most of all, she enjoyed spending time at home with her family, cooking homemade meals, walking through Francis King Park and camping on Saturna Island. A role model for many, Kari led by example as an impactful teacher, fearless adventurer and deeply compassionate wife and mother. Kari is lovingly remembered for her enduring strength, unbreakable spirit and generous heart. She is survived by her parents Myrna and Bjorn, brothers Glenn and Kevin, her loving husband Kelly and three children, Connor, Molly and Wilson.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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29 Responses
My deepest appreciation and admiration to Kari, who shared her patience, guidance, kindness, and matter-of-factness generously with me at Cedar Hill. She always made the time to chat about school and non-school topics despite her busy schedule.
Kari, your bright light shines in all those fortunate enough to have known you. Thank you, Kari, and I send my heartfelt condolences to your beautiful family.
Ros Penty
Sadly, I didn’t get to know Kari as an adult. But having her as my childhood best friend has impacted my life for the good. After surviving a childhood loss it was Kari who was my constant. We lived the ideal country life a few doors from each other, surrounded with trees, and hills and fields to roam. Looking back we did so much together, swimming, biking, brownies and girl guides, baton twirling and roller skates, baby sitting ,gymnastics, sleepovers , hours and hours in the pool. Shucking peas, playing games, playing school( yes Kari was always the teacher). We were inseparable, until we weren’t. But life is this way, people touch us for a moment and when we’re lucky, the impact lasts a lifetime. Thank you Myrna and Bjorn for this amazing childhood gift of your daughter! I’m so very sorry for your loss and you are all in my heart.
Kelly, Connor, Molly and Wilson, Myrna and Bjorn
I am thinking of you all and sending my love. We have so many fond memories of times spent with you all.
I am sorry for your loss.
Tricia Orme
I met Kari in Gr 8 over 45 yrs ago. I still remember her bright smile, easy laugh, smart and fun to be around. Full circle she taught our oldest son in his Junior High. She was still that smart, fun, easy laugh. Setting an example living life to the fullest with her family, traveling the world. I know she was like a favourite sister to all the friends who knew her through her husband Kelly, and their family connection with the fishing lodge. I know all of us at the GEC are heartbroken, and extend sincerest sympathy to Kelly, their children, their families. I read somewhere if you keep them with you, they’re never gone.
I remember the day Kari walked up to me outside our son’s kindergarten class and said, “I think you work with my mom.” From that moment on we became instant friends. Our sons and daughters became the best of friends (and still are to this day) and Kari, Kelly and their family became a huge part of our lives.
Heidi and Kari used to go running together and later over a glass of wine (or two), talk about travelling, kids and life. Whenever the Reid family returned from one of their many adventures we couldn’t wait for them to come over for the evening and share the incredible videos they had put together. Kelly was in charge of production and Kari narrated. They were lessons in how to have epic family adventures that always inspired us.
Our families shared a property at Cowichan Lake for seventeen years. Kids’ birthdays, meals together, towing the kids around the lake behind our boats, family hikes, star gazing and late nights around the fire filled with conversation and laughter. Kari was such a strong bright and warm presence.
There are so many beautiful memories of the conversations, laughter, and adventures with Kari and our families that it’s difficult to know where to start and stop. There were years of fun at the lake, the times they took us to the fishing lodge, being so close while raising our families, the hikes, the countless meals together and even more late nights spent laughing and talking. Kari was a teacher that taught us so much, a role model when it came to the importance of family and an inspiration when it came to living a full meaningful life.
Our family is incredibly saddened by Kari leaving us so soon and our hearts are breaking at the loss being felt right now by Kelly, Connor, Molly and Wilson (Myrna, Bjorn, Glenn, Kevin and everyone who loved her)
Was just re-reading the texts you sent not that long ago and can’t believe you are gone. Miss you buddy, I sure wish I could have just one more hug.
Heidi, Carley, Cameron, Mickey
I’m so incredibly sorry to hear of Kari’s passing – the world lost a really bright light. I had the privilege of working with Kari at Cedar Hill. Kari was not only an incredibly gifted and giving educator but also a great friend. I was always in awe of her dedication to her students, colleagues and especially her family. Her adventurous spirit inspired me. She was always supportive and kind, even when she had so much on her own plate, she would check in and make sure I was OK. I also love her sense of humour and ‘tell like it is’ way. She will be mourned and missed deeply by all those who were lucky enough to be in her orbit. I’m sending my love and healing energy to her family as they navigate this huge loss.
I am so very sorry to hear of Kari’s passing. I would like to send my condolences to her family. I taught with Kari at Rockheights Middle School and remember her as a talented, dedicated teacher, as well as a proud and devoted mother.
Sending my deepest sympathy,
Susan Shemilt
Kari – a beautiful soul and loved by so many . Fabulous cook ( made it look easy ) fabulous athlete ( couldn’t keep up) super talented at so many things ! Loved life to the fullest and made the most of whatever situation that was presented . My sincere condolences to her parents and the Reid family It was a pleasure to get to know you even just for the brief time we had together. Kari you will be missed and will always be loved
Our deepest condolences to Kelly & the Reid family. As you move through this very difficult time & mourne the loss of your lovely Kari, know that you are in our thoughts!!!