Karen Joan Firth (nee Hoosier)
Karen Joan Firth (nee Hoosier) passed away May 7, 2021 with family at her side, at Pilgrims Hospice (Roozen Family Center).
She is survived by her son, Jonathan Firth (Faheema Ali); father, Jim Hoosier (Jennette Lee); siblings Janice (Bruce Butler), Brad Hoosier, Cris (Glen Fleck); ex-husband, Terry Firth; and was predeceased by her mother Ronalee Rankel. She will be remembered by immediate and extended family, old friends and new, and no doubt by the many students whose lives she touched during her career as a sign language interpreter with Edmonton Public Schools.
Karen was incredibly strong - she had a ribbon of steel hidden within her petite frame. She was generous, compassionate, loving, unafraid to be different, and stubborn - in a very good way! Fiercely independent, she rarely asked for help, but would drop everything she was doing to help and care for others. She had a diverse set of interests: music and guitar, poker, curling, photography, hiking in the mountains, walking in the river valley in all seasons, reading, attending the Fringe and other Edmonton festivals. She loved to travel and, with her inquisitive and friendly nature, easily met new people wherever she went.
We are so grateful for the care and compassion that Karen - and our family - received at Pilgrims. Donations in Karen’s memory may be made to Pilgrims Hospice Society or the charity of your choice.
Karen, we will miss you. But our hearts are light as we think of you heading off on your next travels.
Arrangements will be made for a family celebration later this summer.
To Jonathan and Faheema, Uncle Jim and Jennette, Janice and Bruce, Brad, and Chris and Glen. Our Deepest Sympathy. No words can take away the sadness in your hearts. Please know we are thinking of you all at this very difficult time.
To Karen’s family:
I had Karen as an ASL interpreter for a couple of years, many years ago. I am saddened to learn about her recent passing. I agree she was generous and compassionate. She was supportive of my educational journey. I am grateful for the years that I had her as my interpreter. I can imagine she had supported many other students in pursuing their goals and dreams. I would like to extend my sincere condolences for your loss and wish Karen peace.
Hi Jon, I bought a can of pineapples (for pizza) and thought of you and your Mum. I’m really sad to hear of Karen passing. She loved her family most of all and was so proud of them. She was so gentle and so courageous. My condolences to you all.
Hi Dan
Thanks for that great memory. Could you reach out to one of the family? I’d like to get your email address.
Thanks!!
Janice
Hi again, Dan
It turns out the replies are not public, so here is my email!
janice.butler@outlook.com
We’d like to invite you to our celebration of Karen and family and friends.
Hope to see you there.
Janice
to jon and family i know its been a bit since here passing but i am just hearing about it i am absolutley heart broken about it i know she was dealing with cancer but i was under the impretion it was under control
Karen was one of my favorite cousins we could not see each other for months and then come together at some family gathering and continue on without any awkwardness Jon you had a great mom and she will be missed she was aloving caring person I hope to be able to see you in august take care
Some of the best memories I have of Karen was when we curled together in the 90’s. We played on mixed leagues with her for quite a few years and she was an outstanding athlete! She was so much fun, I will never forget her teaching us all the Macarena, she had such great spirit. I think what I will remember most is her infectious laugh.
God speed my friend, the heavens have gained a shining new star.
I am so very sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. What a beautiful life she lived, I can see her laughing teaching her team the Macarena. Please accept Corrine and my condolences.