Obituary for Karen Klisko
Karen Dale Klisko (Halas)
We are heartbroken to announce that Karen Klisko, beloved wife, mother, sister, auntie, niece, cousin and friend, passed away on September 4th, 2022. Inspired by the example of her parents, Karen had a deep and abiding faith in God which gave her strength throughout her life. In turn, her strength was an example for all of us who knew and loved her. In her adolescence, Karen’s mom died suddenly and overnight she became a primary caregiver for her siblings, an experience that set the foundation for a lifetime of service to others.
The first in her family to go to university, Karen became a gifted early childhood educator. After graduating in the 70’s, she envisioned then brought to reality the first nursery program at the North End YMCA. She also founded the West St Paul nursery school. She went on to have a fulfilling career as an early years teacher with inner city children in the Winnipeg School Division. Even in retirement, her love for children kept her engaged as the "Wacky Wizard," teaching science after school, substitute teaching or supporting families through community outreach.
Karen’s greatest passion was her family. Having recently celebrated 52 years of marriage, Karen and Ken enjoyed a lifetime of fun and adventure with their two sons Jonathan and Timothy. From camping trips with family and friends all over Manitoba and beyond to summertime family gatherings at the cottage her dad built in Whytewold, the outdoors was a constant companion. Karen loved to swim (no matter how cold the water), garden, cycle, walk or snowshoe in winter.
Together, Karen and Ken built a very full life among their many friends at Shorepointe Village and in Gimli. She was actively engaged in her community, working with others to make the world a better place. Her love, kindness and compassion had no bounds. In more recent years, Karen's disciplined approach to healthy eating, exercise, yoga and prayerful meditation allowed her to endure significant health issues with courage, strength and grace.
Left to mourn are her beloved husband Ken, her son Jonathan and partner Leah, her son Timothy, her brother Joe and wife Deenie, her sister Joannie and partner Bob, her in-laws Tom, Noella, Brian and Diane; her many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, all of whom she adored; her Uncle Jerry and Aunties Noreen and Lena, with whom she had special relationships; and many many friends, neighbours and relations who loved her as she loved them. She was predeceased by her parents Mary, Ray, and Ellie; her siblings Ron and Fran; her great-nephew Cody and her parents-in-law Leo and Anne Klisko.
Karen’s personal relationship with Jesus guided her life. Her faith comforts us now as we say goodbye too soon. We love you forever and ever, amen!
A celebration of life will take place at a later date. To honour Karen and her lifelong advocacy for social justice, if you so choose, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.
We are heartbroken to announce that Karen Klisko, beloved wife, mother, sister, auntie, niece, cousin and friend, passed away on September 4th, 2022. Inspired by the example of her parents, Karen had a deep and abiding faith in God which gave her strength throughout her life. In turn, her strength was an example for all of us who knew and loved her. In her adolescence, Karen’s mom died suddenly and overnight she became a primary caregiver for her siblings, an experience that set the foundation for a lifetime of service to others.
The first in her family to go to university, Karen became a gifted early childhood educator. After graduating in the 70’s, she envisioned then brought to reality the first nursery program at the North End YMCA. She also founded the West St Paul nursery school. She went on to have a fulfilling career as an early years teacher with inner city children in the Winnipeg School Division. Even in retirement, her love for children kept her engaged as the "Wacky Wizard," teaching science after school, substitute teaching or supporting families through community outreach.
Karen’s greatest passion was her family. Having recently celebrated 52 years of marriage, Karen and Ken enjoyed a lifetime of fun and adventure with their two sons Jonathan and Timothy. From camping trips with family and friends all over Manitoba and beyond to summertime family gatherings at the cottage her dad built in Whytewold, the outdoors was a constant companion. Karen loved to swim (no matter how cold the water), garden, cycle, walk or snowshoe in winter.
Together, Karen and Ken built a very full life among their many friends at Shorepointe Village and in Gimli. She was actively engaged in her community, working with others to make the world a better place. Her love, kindness and compassion had no bounds. In more recent years, Karen's disciplined approach to healthy eating, exercise, yoga and prayerful meditation allowed her to endure significant health issues with courage, strength and grace.
Left to mourn are her beloved husband Ken, her son Jonathan and partner Leah, her son Timothy, her brother Joe and wife Deenie, her sister Joannie and partner Bob, her in-laws Tom, Noella, Brian and Diane; her many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, all of whom she adored; her Uncle Jerry and Aunties Noreen and Lena, with whom she had special relationships; and many many friends, neighbours and relations who loved her as she loved them. She was predeceased by her parents Mary, Ray, and Ellie; her siblings Ron and Fran; her great-nephew Cody and her parents-in-law Leo and Anne Klisko.
Karen’s personal relationship with Jesus guided her life. Her faith comforts us now as we say goodbye too soon. We love you forever and ever, amen!
A celebration of life will take place at a later date. To honour Karen and her lifelong advocacy for social justice, if you so choose, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.