Karen Desjardins
Karen Desjardins, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025 surrounded by her loving children. She was born on May 2, 1967 in Montreal, Quebec where she spent many years of her life before later moving to Ontario in 1997.
Karen was a kind and compassionate soul who touched the lives of everyone she met. She had a passion for helping others and dedicated her life to making a difference in those around her. As a devoted mother, she always put her family first and was their biggest supporter in all of their endeavors.
Karen valued hard work and compassion, and had an intuition when it came to inspiring others. She began her more than 25 year career in banking where she quickly transitioned into leadership roles. She loved to inspire her colleagues and quickly became passionate about mentoring those on her team. Part of her legacy is in her personal bonds and the lasting impact she had on her colleagues.
Karen had a love for adventure and travel, it wouldn’t be unusual to be told she was leaving the next day for a cruise, or to soak in some ‘Vitamin Sea’. In the summers, you would regularly find her in ‘The Country’ at the trailer in Quebec where she loved to cook and have campfires while listening to music, creating a peaceful and fun-loving atmosphere for herself and her loved ones.
Throughout her life, Karen was known for her unwavering strength and resilience in the face of adversity. She faced many challenges with grace and courage, inspiring those around her to never give up hope. Her positive attitude and infectious laughter brought joy to all those who knew her.
Karen will be deeply missed by her loving children Corey (Jessica) Desjardins and Ashley (Sean) Kines, mother Florence, siblings Susan Desjardins (Wes), Cindy Desjardins (Andy), Nancy Desjardins (Rhonda), Tony Desjardins, nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known her.
As per her wishes, there will be a celebration of life for close family and friends held at MC Hall in Montreal, Qc on April 4 at 1-4 pm, with another celebration to be held in June for those who wish to express their condolences in Ontario. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Trillium Health Partners Foundation in Karen’s name, to directly support the CVH Cancer centre. (Make a Gift in Memory: Karen Desjardins - Trillium Health Partners Foundation)
May she rest in peace and may her spirit continue to guide and inspire us all.
Messages and condolences may be left at www.tricitycremations.com. Please visit Karen’s obituary notice on Facebook.