Karen Yanz
June 16th, 2019
It is with great sadness that the family of Karen Yanz announces her passing on June 16, 2019 at the age 56 years. Karen was predeceased by her parents Fred and Sylvia Yanz. She is survived by and lovingly remembered by her sister Laura (Richard) Moltz, niece Kalcey (Pete), nephews Coel (Tomesine) and Troy (Lexie), special friend Mrs. Moltz (Bernie), her Clare Parker/Garritty Home family and numerous friends and family.
Karen was born and lived in Regina. She then moved to the family farm near Disley with her family and in the early 1980’s moved into Garritty Home in Regina where she lived until her passing. She attended Harrow de Groot School in Regina and after graduating Karen started work at the Saskatchewan Abilities Council where she was part of various work programs such as filing, cleaning and sewing and most recently attended the Quality of Life program. Karen was very proud of her work.
Karen was always active and loved being involved in many different activities. She was very involved in Special Olympics with bowling, baseball and rhythmic gymnastics. She was able to travel to compete in these sports and was extremely fortunate to compete in rhythmic gymnastics at the Canadian Special Olympics in Halifax (1994) and Special Olympic World Games in Connecticut (1995). Karen enjoyed attending dances, visiting friends, going to Camp Easter Seal and going for treats and never wanted to miss anything. Over the years she always looked forward to her regular visits home to the farm which was a big part of her and her families’ life.
Karen shared joy and happiness every day with whoever she was with. Karen showed pride in her family and never failed to talk about her sister, brother-in-law and favourite niece and nephews. She gave her family unconditional love and taught those around her to be compassionate and take enjoyment in life.
A special thank you to Garritty Home (run by The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions) and more recently run by Clare Parker Homes Inc. for providing Karen with a home full of love, support and comfort all these years.
Karen always made a point to say “I missed you”, now we can say “We will all miss you”.
The family will have a small gathering at a later date. Donations can be made to Clare Parker Homes Inc., Special Olympics Regina or Saskatchewan Abilities Council of Regina.
Messages:
When I was involved with Special Olympics I got to know Karen. She had such a great smile and always talked about her family. She will be missed by so many people; her smiles and hugs, her effort and enjoyment at whatever she did will live on forever...especially when we see a diet coke. Hugs to all of you.
I am so sorry to hear of Karen's passing. There were many days when I worked at the Abilities Council that Karen's "good morning" or "I like you" or "my sister said to say hi to you" or her excitement for Camp, were the best parts of my day. Fly with the angels, Karen. Your work here is done.
Laura and family. So sorry to hear of the passing of Karen! Such a lovely lady!! You will all miss her dearly. My son Daryl also went to DeGroot. Later on, Daryl lived in the home on Halifax St. Karen will now be resting in peace with her mom and dad whom she missed so much!
Laura and family; we are so sorry for your loss and extend our sincere condolences. Karen was indeed one of ‘heavens very special child’ and brought joy to so many of us. Sincerely, Margaret, Max and Grant Schaffer
Laura....Mom and I were talking about Karen and upon googling, learned of her passing. Our sincerest condolences. Mom was remembering the fun times she spent with Laura when we lived next door on Grace St. Most Sincerely Marian Harrison Kathy Harrison