Karen Saunders

Passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, at the age of 52 years, following a courageous battle with numerous health challenges and, ultimately, brain cancer.

Karen was the beloved daughter of Richard and Maureen and the loving mother of Riley and Amber, who were the pride and joy of her life.

Known for her outgoing personality and fun-loving spirit, Karen had a gift for making connections and enjoyed spending time with others.  Professionally, Karen owned and operated her own bookkeeping business, taking pride in the relationships she built with her clients and the work she provided.

Originally from Aurora, Karen later made Barrie her home.  It was there that she discovered a passion that would become one of the great joys of her life, Dragon Boating.  Being on the water was always her happy place and Dragon Boating became an extension of that joy.  The bonds she formed within the Dragon Boat community were especially meaningful, and during her illness, that community honoured her by naming a race at a Barrie Dragon Boat Festival in recognition of her strength.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place, and her cremated remains will be scattered on the water she loved so dearly.

Online memories and condolences may be shared with Maureen at www.peacefultransition.ca.