Karen Punnett

Obituary

It is with profound sadness, and with gratitude for a life beautifully lived, that the family of Karen Lee Punnett (née Beatty) announces her peaceful passing at the Southampton Hospital on May 6, 2026.

Karen will be forever missed by her husband, Jim Punnett; children, Alycia Tedford (Bryan) and Rebecca Kain (Johnny); siblings Dave Beatty (Dawn) and Randy Beatty (Annette); and grandchildren, Veronica, Penelope, Forrest, and William. Predeceased by; parents, Randall and Norma Jean Beatty; and sister, Barbara (Lorne) Howard.

Karen’s warm, kind spirit radiated to all she loved. Nowhere was that more evident than in her role as daughter, sister, wife, mother, and gramma. Karen’s self-proclaimed greatest accomplishment was building a life with her husband and being a mom to her daughters. She was her grandchildren’s most devoted champion and took unmistakable pride in them. Karen gathered friendships that she cherished through her jobs and interests over the years. A few even became chosen family and will remain friends forever.

Small in stature, enormous in presence, Karen was a woman of considerable talent and even greater heart. Karen’s creative spirit shone through in many ways over the years. More recently, photography became a particular passion. Always with a camera in her hand, Karen will be remembered roaming backroads in search of snowy owls, fearlessly exploring forests for moose and bears, and paddling her baby blue kayak patiently watching loons, ducks and other birds. Photographing wildlife both near home and at her home away from home, Grundy Lake Provincial Park, brought her so much joy. Wherever the road or water took her, her favourite subjects to capture were her beloved grandchildren. She gave herself fully to every interest she pursued and in doing so left behind gifts for everyone she loved.

Karen’s love for her family was wholehearted and unwavering – and when illness came, she fought for more time with them with quiet strength. The family wishes to express sincere and heartfelt thanks to the Oncology team at the Owen Sound Hospital for the dedicated and compassionate care they provided.

A come and go celebration of life will be held in early June – details to come soon.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Oncology Department at Brightshores Health Centre, donating to Grundy Lake (or your favorite) Provincial Park, or giving blood with Canadian Blood Services.