Obituary of Karen Ann Gagnon (née Robinson)

We are saddened to announce the unexpected passing of Karen Ann Gagnon (née Robinson) on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Marotta Family Hospital in St. Catharines at the age of 67. Predeceased by her parents, Duke and Marilyn Robinson along with her sister Donna Dickie. She was the beloved wife of Jocko for the past 38 years, a devoted mother to Jake (Emily) and Sarah (Mike), step-mother to Chris (Kristen) and Stephanie (Naj). She was an adored gee gee and granny to Nicholas, Logan, Shea, Angus, Sasha, Zoe, Izaak, Ally, Liv, Ella and Lucy. A dear sister to George (Tina), Shelley (Larry) and brother-in-law, Don.Karen was a loving step-daughter to Marilyn Robinson and aunt to many nieces and nephews, all of which she loved immensely.

Karen Gagnon will be remembered for her generous heart, adventurous spirit, and the deep love she had for her family and community. Karen had a passion for travel. Cuba held a special place in her heart. She loved the warmth of the sun, the beauty of the beaches, and the welcoming hospitality of the people she met there.

Karen’s compassion reached far beyond travel. She journeyed to Africa as a missionary through Seeds of Hope, reflecting her lifelong desire to help others and give back wherever she could. Serving her community was simply part of who Karen was.

She devoted much of her working life to supporting children as an Educational Assistant and Support Worker. Karen cared deeply about the students she worked with and always looked for ways to make a difference in their lives. At McKay Public School in Port Colborne, she founded the Breakfast Club so students could begin their day with a nutritious meal and a caring start.

Karen’s kindness was often expressed through the simple, thoughtful things she did for others. If someone was unwell, she might arrive with homemade soup—complete with noodles she had made by hand. She loved cooking and baking and found joy in sharing meals with family and friends. One of her favorite traditions was making meat pies each year alongside her husband and sister. Karen often watched the Food Network for inspiration and happily challenged herself to recreate dishes in her own kitchen.

Karen also had a soft spot for animals and always shared her home with a beloved dog or cat. She enjoyed spending time in her garden, tending to both flowers and vegetables. Music was another joy in her life; she loved listening to John Prine and was known to play the Randy Travis Christmas album—even in the middle of July.

Above all else, Karen cherished time with her family. Her grandchildren meant the world to her, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Karen will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the countless acts of kindness that touched so many lives and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Her family would like to send a sincere thank you to the staff of the I.C.U and E.R department at the Marotta Family Hospital for their willingness to go above and beyond and their care and compassion. It was greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held. If desired, donations in Karen's memory may be made to the Humane Society of Greater Niagara or the Breakfast Club at McKay Public School .