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KAREN L. COMMODORE (OLSON)
Born: Sep 29, 1955
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryKAREN L. COMMODORE (nee OLSON) 1955 - 2014 Karen was born in Winnipeg, MB on September 29, 1955. She was raised in Bird's Hill at 2071 Roseneath Ave. with her sister, Peggie and Mom and Dad. Growing up she was actively involved with music lessons and sports. She was a strong academic student and enjoyed chores inside the house such as baking and house cleaning. Karen attended Red River Community College where she attained a diploma for Secretarial studies. She was very successful in her career working for many years at Deloitte for two partners. Karen's outgoing personality made her many strong friendships. She enjoyed traveling and was very glad she travelled while she could; some trips included Hawaii, Jamaica, and a cruise to Alaska. When Karen was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1989 she stayed strong as the disease progressed changing her way of life. Throughout Karen's fight of the disease she kept her head high and smile big, always maintaining a positive outlook on life. Karen had a Rottweiler, Mercedes she gave Karen a great deal of companionship especially after her diagnosis with MS, and was regarded as a daughter. Karen was involved with the MS Society for many years, and kept a busy lifestyle with her outings to the mall and social life. The last nine years of her life were spent residing at Kildonan Personal Care Centre. Karen passed away from complications of pneumonia with her MS. We will miss you Karen, you have inspired us and reminded us of the preciousness of life as you move on to a new and wonderful place, with our love. Karen is survived by loving sister, Peggie Gudmundson (Vernon), two nieces; Aileen Sichewski (Spencer) and Julia Gudmundson, and significant other Thomas Amundson. A service will be held on Wednesday August 27 at 2:00 p.m. at Kildonan Personal Care Centre, 1970 Henderson Highway. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the M.S. Society, 100-1465 Buffalo Place Winnipeg, MB R3T 1L8. "Put on a Smile, and have a Great Day." Karen Commodore WHEN I MUST LEAVE YOU When I must leave you for a little while, Please do not grieve and shed wild tears And hug your sorrow to you through the years, But start out bravely with a gallant smile, And for my sake and in my name Live on and do all things the same. Feed not your loneliness on empty days, But fill each waking hour in useful ways; Reach out your hand in comfort and in cheer And I in turn will comfort you And hold you near; And never, never be afraid to die For I am waiting For you in the sky!
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 23, 2014
Condolences & Memories (11 entries)
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Karen was an inspiration to everyone who knew her or came in contact with her. I often remember her words to me when we last were together. "My body has let me down -- but my mind is still "good"!" How true it was and what an inspiration to all who were lucky enough to know her. May you bless us with your grace Karen and be an "angel" in our lives as you were when you were with us. Our love and thoughts are with you forever. - Posted by: Marilyn (Moffet) MacFadyen (Cousin) on: Sep 25, 2014
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Visiting a friend at KPCC I also met Karen and spoke to her every time I went there, with my little dog. Karen let me see the painting of the dog in her room whose eyes followed you to whereever you stood. I am now living in an assisted living residence myself and Karen wanted to come visit me to which I was so looking forward to. So I was shocked to read in the paper that she had passed away. But she will always be remembered for her friendliness and compassion. Another angel awaiting me in heaven! Renate N. - Posted by: Renate Nolius (friend) on: Aug 27, 2014
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I will always remember our phone calls we had over the years, the laughter we shared, you were always up beat, even on my last visit to you just 3 weeks ago. Oh how you will be missed by so many, & now you're at peace without pain, I will miss you Karen, friend Fred. - Posted by: Lawrence FRED Atkinson (A Friend from Nanaimo BC) on: Aug 25, 2014
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I too grew up in East St. Paul and went all through school with Karen. While I had not seen her in many, many years, I will always remember her as a truly kind soul. She NEVER had a bad thing to say about anyone and was friends with everyone. - Posted by: Beverly Burton-Guindon nee Diaczun (Friend) on: Aug 25, 2014
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Karen and I were not as active in our friendship in the last few years, yet she was always in my heart. Karen was always strong and gave her strength to others. Karen be sure to say hello to those who have left us and who I expect to be part of your greeting party. Much loved ... and you will be remembered. Gini - Posted by: Gini Lauder (Friend) on: Aug 24, 2014
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I met Karen when my Grandma went to live at KPCC - Karen was in the room right next door. Karen was an amazing human being and I was attracted to her instantly. After my Grandma passed away I continued to keep Karen in my life - I loved to visit her - she was an amazing person. I - and other family member who got to know her - will miss her terribly. Rest in Peace Karen! Every time I see a butterfly - or watch the tigers at the zoo, I will think of you - Posted by: Jan Hetherington (Friend) on: Aug 24, 2014
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So sad to see Karen's obituary in the Free Press today. I met Karen almost 3 years ago when my mother (Hazel Barker) became a resident at Kildonan Personal Care Centre (Rm 129 across from Tom). I chatted with Karen on a weekly basis whenever I was visiting my mom. I truly feel sorry for your loss and wish to extend my condolences to Tom and to all the family. I will miss her smiling face around KPCC. - Posted by: Valeri Brown (Acquaintance through Kildonan Personal Care Centre) on: Aug 23, 2014
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Karen was a beautiful lady through and through. Her smile and optimism were contagious. I feel privileged having known Karen! - Posted by: Jackie Blonski () on: Aug 23, 2014
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Karen will forever be remembered for her caring supportive ways. When we first met, I knew she would be a friend for life. She maintained all of her relationships with respect and deep affection. Her outlook on life was always so positive,and she was constantly encouraging others by pure example. She will always remain one of the most inspirational people in my life, and I feel truly blessed that she was my friend. I will miss you terribly, and I know that Mercedes and your family were waiting to greet you at Heaven's door. You are free and Home once again. - Posted by: Debbie Roskos (Friend) on: Aug 23, 2014
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Karen's spirit and joy in living even as her world diminished was courageous and impressive. Her quick wit and assuring "I'm joking!" always brought a smile. Sad that her time was now, glad that her spirit is free. Ever in our hearts. Maureen - Posted by: Maureen Moffet (cousin) on: Aug 23, 2014
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Karen, you always put a smile in my heart, when each time I would visit you had the brightest smile for me. I have known you for thirteen years, meeting you at a BE weekend and sharing together in our group. Little did I know then, that we would become such good friends and help each other in so many ways. I wil never forget our visits to the malls, movies and sharing pizza with our friend Diane and all the things " soul sisters" do together. I learned so many things from you " my wonderful friend ", so many times I left your room thinking, " Karen made me feel so happy". I do not think I will ever know someone who taught me so many things about life, being happy throughout trials, her great listening skills, her total love for life and most all for being so courageous. I will forever miss you Karen and I will never forget you. You came into my life when I was down and lifted me up and I will always be grateful. Karen, fly beautiful butterfly ! My sincere condolences to Peggie, Vern, Aileen and Julia. - Posted by: Ann Louise Long (friend) on: Aug 23, 2014