Tribute

Karen passed away peacefully at Willingdon Creek Village in the early hours of January 19, 2026.  She was born and raised in Powell River, B.C. and was predeceased by her four brothers, Len, Les, Ron and Jim, her mother, Vera Shelton and father, Jim Shelton.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Jim, and her four children Dave, Mike (Natascha), Don (Tanya), Michele, and her grandchildren, Chelsea, Alex, Nick, Olivia, Wade, Sophie, Niven, Christoph, Adriana and many nieces and nephews.

Mom was passionate about B.C. history, particularly Powell River history.  She was involved with the Powell River Museum and Heritage Society for many years.  Mom researched local history and co-authored several books such as Pulp, Paper, and People, and Sunshine and Salt Air.  She loved oral history and wrote The Nelson Island Story as a chronicle of her friends’ off the grid life on Nelson Island.

In addition to writing, she enjoyed crocheting, quilting, and other sewing projects.  Mom loved to play games with her family.  She played Scrabble with dad and spent many hours playing various board games with her children and grandchildren.

Mom and dad shared their home at Myrtle Point for thirty years; they spent countless hours gathering beach glass, watching the whales and the beautiful sunsets.  They also had a bed and breakfast, B & B By the Sea: Southern Comfort, for twelve years and met many wonderful people.

Mom also loved to travel with dad and enjoyed numerous adventures together.  Among the most significant were their trips to Switzerland to see their son and family.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring, at a later date.