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KAREN ELIZABETH HIRST
With heavy hearts the family of Karen Elizabeth Hirst are deeply saddened to share that she has passed away at the Gimli Hospital after a six-year battle with cancer. She was born in Winnipeg on July 23, 1959 and passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family on July 5, 2026.
Left to mourn her loss is her loving husband Brent, and the centre of her world their son, Brett (Kirstyn). Also left to mourn is Karen’s mother, Trudy Smith-Harris, sisters Peggy Loewen (David) and Wendy Kroeker (Ron), brother Jeff Erhardt (Tracy), and sisters-in-law Lea Workman and Kerry Voogt (Harry), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Karen was predeceased by her stepfather, John Harris, in-laws Margaret and John Hirst, and sister-in-law Jo-Ann Jensen (Tom).
Karen fought with all her will, however, after all options were exhausted, we had to accept her fate. Karen's concern was always for her family, not herself. She was particularly devoted to her son, Brett and made sure he had all her love and support. She was a person who wanted to help others, always making people feel welcome and loved. Her kindness and honesty drew people to her. Karen loved to entertain and was known for her exceptional cooking skills and attention to detail.
Upon finishing school, she started working at Shoppers Drug Mart, where she worked with incredible dedication for 43 years until the time of her diagnosis.
Our family wants to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported us during this challenging time. We’d like to thank our family doctor, Dr. Mark Boroditsky and her cancer care team, Dr. Kean, Dr. Popowich, and Dr. Robertson. We also want to thank the amazing staff and chemo nurses at the Gimli Hospital, especially Julie, Donna, Tanis, Loren, and Amanda, who made all Karen’s treatments as comfortable as possible. To our friends and neighbours who brought meals, flowers, and for just being there for us whenever we needed them, we are so incredibly blessed and grateful.
In keeping with Karen's wishes, a private Celebration of Life is planned and Interment at a later date. Flowers are gratefully declined. In memory of Karen her family ask you to do something nice for someone today.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 11, 2026
Condolences & Memories (6 entries)
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We met as neighbors and became life long friends. I will miss our times on each other's decks, sipping wine whether in a deep conversation or chats with many laughs. All the puppy play dates which are too many to even recall. Our numerous trips (Canada, US, Cuba and Mexico). Dinners, BBQs, and you baking with my girls because I sure can't bake like you! You making sure I didn't buy another pair of boots in Grand Forks but I always did. :) Rest now my friend. I know you will watch over Brent, Brett and Buffy. The last time I saw you I said this is not good bye, it's I'll see you again. That is very true. Love you. Terri - Posted by: Terri Wagner (Friend) on: Jul 16, 2026
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Karen was a dear friend and neighbour of mine. We formed a bond and a wonderful friendship with each other and other ladies in the neighborhood over wine, laughter, excursions, ladies lunches and the occasional beach day. She was a strong character, never lamented her fate and always had a good story. She was also a fabulous baker! She could be counted on to message us all sometimes with, “Anyone feel like having a glass (or two!) of wine? I’ll be on my front porch this afternoon!” She was a great friend and one of our original group and will be forever missed. ❤️ - Posted by: Lana Kovich (Friend/Neighbour) on: Jul 11, 2026
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Sending my deepest condolences to Brent, Brett and family. - Posted by: Shannon Coburn (Family Friend) on: Jul 11, 2026
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Brent, Brett Kirstyn & Bumpers: So very sorry for your loss, deepest condolences to you all. We were so very fortunate to share some wonderful memories with Karen at the lake and in Ixtapa. Karen was one of the strongest women that we know, and we appreciated her kindness and generousity. Love Craig,Ann, Brett (Lucy & Kodie). - Posted by: Craig & Ann (Friends) on: Jul 11, 2026
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My sincere condolences to Brent, Brett and Kirstyn and all of Karen’s family. I was fortunate to have gotten to know Karen through her cancer journey. She was a wonderful lady and I enjoyed all of the time spent with her. She fought hard and enjoyed her life to the fullest while she went through this. I will miss her. - Posted by: Donna Wishnowski (Nurse) on: Jul 11, 2026
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So very sad to see this. Karen was a beautiful fun loving soul. So much fun during Brent’s broomball days with the Rockies. Condolences to all. - Posted by: Trevor & Patsy Peters (Friends) on: Jul 11, 2026