On June 1, 2012, at age 59, Karen died peacefully after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Karen was the much loved mother of Alexander (Jennifer), Nicholas, and Angela Ross and a second mother to Jennifer, Monika and Brendan Brown; the cherished daughter of Thomas Byrnes (deceased) and Martha (nee Hulsman) Byrnes; caring sister of Robert (Karen Taylor) Byrnes, Thomas (Debbie) Byrnes, Catherine Byrnes, Linda Byrnes (deceased), Janice Brown (deceased); and dear friend to many more.
Karen was an Associate Partner at Deloitte, in Toronto, where she enjoyed a long and varied career. Karen was also an amazing caregiver, artist, adventurer, advisor and supporter of others. Karen was successful in many endeavours; she lived life to the fullest, travelled widely, explored fearlessly but always made time for family, fine food and taking care of details. She was independent and strong and taught her children to be the same. She leaves a lasting legacy of love, laughter, kindness, and so many memories. Visitation will be held at Kopriva Taylor Community Funeral Home, 64 Lakeshore Rd. W., Oakville (1 block east of Kerr St., 905 844-2600) from 2-4 and 6-8pm Tuesday June 5, 2012. Cremation followed by private family interment at St. Jude's Cemetery in Oakville. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ian Anderson House hospice in Oakville or the Canadian Cancer Society.