Obituary of Karen Williams

With heavy hearts we mourn the loss of Karen Jane Williams, beloved Daughter, Sister, Aunt, and Friend, who passed away on December 14, 2024 at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, after a long, fierce, battle with cancer, where she beat the odds over and over again to the very end.

Born on April 3, 1971, Karen was the youngest daughter of three children, predeceased by her loving parents, Sandra (2018) and Kevin Williams (2022). Growing up in Omemee, Ontario, gave Karen a lifelong love of lakes, open roads, and cottage-country adventures. She had a wicked sense of humour, was always up for fun, loved a good road trip, was crazy about dogs, and never said no to a night out at the casino, but above all, it was music that had Karen’s heart and soul. Karen’s life was backed by a rock-fueled soundtrack that led her to find a true tribe of like-minded friends who meant the world to her. The lyrics that spoke to Karen were inked onto her skin and she would travel far to experience the music and musicians that moved her. Going to a live concert with friends and family was one of Karen’s favourite things to do, and so many who loved her will forever think of Karen when certain songs begin to play. 

Karen adored her family and is survived by her 2 loving siblings Rhonda (Tony) and Paul (Angie); her 5 much loved nieces and nephews Kevin (Emily), Scott (Meagan), Nicole (Ryan), Ethan and Alannah; and her beloved grand-nephew Carter; as well as her dear friend and companion Mike Gibson, and many close friends. 

We will deeply miss her bright spark, but know that Karen will continue to live large in so many hearts, filled with wonderful memories, funny moments, and music, music, music.

We invite all who loved her to please join us for a Celebration of Life on Friday, January 3, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at De Stefano Funeral Home in Oshawa. To honour Karen, we’d love to see people wearing concert t-shirts from bands she liked, or from any of the shows you went to see with her. Bring your memories and your “Karen’s Li’l Adventures” stories to share as we say our goodbyes and celebrate her fierce and beautiful spirit.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in Karen’s name.

“The road is long, just one more song. A little something to remind you when I’m gone… when I’m gone.”