Karen Leigh Albaugh

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear daughter, sister, and friend, Karen Leigh Albaugh, on Saturday, December 21, 2024, with family and friends by her side. 

 Karen passed far too soon and is survived by her father and mother Gaylord (Whitey) and Barb Albaugh and her sister, Jen Albaugh all of Tiverton, Nova Scotia and by cousins Kaye, Jim and Barb Watt, Barb Perry and Barry Buckman. Karen is also leaving behind a circle of friends who were as close as family and her beloved fur baby, Frankie. 

 We take great comfort knowing that Karen committed her life to the Lord, was baptized and is resting in peace, free of all pain and suffering. 

 Karen was born on September 14 in Dryden, Ontario and was a spirited girl who had a great sense of adventure and a determination to succeed. 

 She built an incredible career in the hair industry and, after decades of working in leading salons, she took the bold leap and opened her own - Done Hair, Skin & Nails Salon - in Niverville, Manitoba. 

 Karen excelled as a beauty guru but became much more than that as a businesswoman, a mentor and a community leader. 

 However, what truly set her apart was her ability to make everyone feel beautiful both inside and out with her rare gift of being able to lift others up, making them feel seen, valued, and radiant.

 Like many small business owners, COVID nearly took her business dream away, but Karen’s determination and resilience saw her through. 

 This year, she made the decision to embark on a new chapter of life, one that her friends and family were so excited to see her begin. But in a twist of fate, she faced an unimaginable diagnosis that left her fighting a battle she was unable to win. 

 Always looking for a silver lining, Karen was endlessly grateful these past months to reconnect with her vast network of friends and to have spent so much time with her family. Please know that your love, visits and many acts of generosity and kindness encouraged Karen to the end and served as incredible sources of strength. 

 May Karen rest in peace in the loving embrace of her Lord and Saviour. Until we meet again! 

 A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. at the Golden Friendship Centre, 118 - 2nd Avenue South, Niverville, Manitoba.