Karen Marie Zogheb

To family and friends far and near;

It is with the saddest of hearts that we must announce the passing of our dear little Karen. Karen was a gentle innocent soul who saw the world through the eyes of a child.

Despite her many challenges, her frail body belied an inner strength, courage and resilience. With the heroic efforts of our parents, especially our mother who cared for all her needs every day of her life, she was able to defy the odds and live a long and meaningful life, becoming  the longest surviving dialysis patient at St Joseph’s Hospital. She had a very vivid and active imagination, which allowed her to live a life of excitement and adventure that was otherwise denied to her.

She liked watching TV and using her iPad. We made the mistake of showing her how to use  Amazon, and Thomas the Tank toys and Paul McCartney memorabilia started showing up at the door! Karen was very sweet, loving and caring, occasionally surprising us with thoughts of family and friends she hadn’t seen in a long time.

She loved all the cats we had over the years, especially Eliza, who she picked out herself at the animal shelter a few years ago. She recently asked what would happen to the cat after she and our mother died. She could also be very feisty and assertive. Many times she put my brothers and me in our places when she felt we needed it.  In the last two weeks, it became increasingly clear that her body was failing fast, and Tuesday afternoon she passed away surrounded by her mother and her brothers.

Her long struggle is over. She will be dearly missed and never forgotten. Rest in Eternal Peace Karen. We love you.