August 16, 2020
It is with saddened hearts that we say good-bye to our amazing mother, wife and friend, Karen Zabinsky. Karen passed away on Sunday, August 16th at home with her family.
Karen was born in Prince Rupert, BC and is survived by her husband Peter, her children: Ramona Ganyo (Joe), Kathleen Spalek (Mieteck) and John Schievink (Cindy Trask), her 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. She also leaves behind a large extended family and many close friends.
Karen will forever be remembered as having a kind, caring and loving spirit. She believed in a "purpose driven life" and that meant a life of service to her family, friends, church and her community.
Karen was passionate about serving and giving back. She was very involved in the Salvation Army church in Campbell River where she was always willing to lend a caring hand whether it was preparing meals at the lighthouse or for someone in need, volunteering on the Emergency Disaster Service Team where she worked at the emergency relief centre during the Kelowna fires or working many cold mornings with her husband Peter for the Christmas Kettle campaign.
She taught Sunday school and spent many hours planning crafts, games and lessons for the children she loved dearly and that gave her such joy. Karen also spent many years living and working in Tahsis where she built many long and lasting relationships and served as a municipal councillor and volunteered as a girl guide leader.
She loved the outdoors fishing and hunting with family and especially loved to spend time in her garden tending to her flowers and providing a bounty of vegetables to all that were in need.
Due to Covid-19 there will be a small private service only. In lieu of flowers we ask that you consider a donation to the Salvation Army Church. Donations can be sent to: The Salvation Army, Ocean Crest Community Ministries, 291 McLean Street, Campbell River, BC V9W 2M4.