Karen Ardis Messer (nicknamed “Penny” by her brother because she was as pretty as a penny) passed away on October 3, 2019. Born November 25, 1944 to Ardis and Edwin Espley in Victoria BC and sister to Desmond “Ted “(Carol-Ann).
Survived by her beloved husband of 48 years, Garnet. Loving mother to Christopher (Jennifer) and Matthew. Adored by her grandchildren Joshua (Mackenzie), Lydia Karen, Garnet and Gabriel. Very proud great grandmother to Olive. Through her love and devotion to her family she made a wonderful home and she will be greatly missed.
You could always plan on her being surrounded by Siamese cats, notepads with lists and a cup of tea while planning her next adventure.
She spent the later part of her life travelling and fulfilling her lifelong dreams of seeing historic sites with her best friend Garnet.
She will be especially missed during the holidays as her dinners were occasions that her family always looked forward to, not only for the wonderful food but for the way she created cherished traditions that will last forever.
Sincere gratitude to the ER and ICU staff at the Montfort Hospital for their valiant efforts.
Visitation will be from 9:00AM until 10:45 at Beechwood Cemetary, followed by a family only burial ceremony.
Digital Guestbook
Ross and Margaret Wilson
Shana & Jim Perkins
So sorry for the loss of your sweet mom, Chris & Jen. We will keep you all in our hearts and prayers as you navigate this difficult path and grieve the loss of such a special lady. We hope it brings comfort to carry on her traditions and to know she lives in you and in her grandchildren. Big hugs, Shana & Jim
Rebecca Bourque
Chris and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of meeting Penny once and knew she was a wonderful soul. May she rest in peace and look over all her family and friends from heaven. I wish you all the strength you need to get through this difficult time.
Reg and Ruth Shevel
So very sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Melanie and Paul
We grieve with you both as we have walked this path too. There is a special hole in your heart when it’s your mom.
Our deepest condolences to you all, and our prayers will cover you. Xoxo
Tasha & Brian Tremblay
Our hearts go out to you guys - so very sorry for the loss of someone so special in your life. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. I hope you will be comforted in the cherished memories you have of Penny and feel the support from all of us that love you.
Lynn Fonger
Gar, Christopher, Matthew, losing someone we love is not easy, but knowing that we have shared our life with & had the love of someone so special is an amazing gift.
Penny was the classiest, funniest, loveliest woman, my role model & friend for over 30 years I’ll miss her terribly.
Sending love & wishing you strength & comfort in each other at this difficult time.
Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” –Mahatma Gandhi
Andrew & Sheila Aitken-Morrow
Sending our love and condolences. xo
Michelle & Brian Grant
Our dear friends Chris and Jen, we are deeply sorry for the sudden loss of your mother. Words cannot be said enough for our condolences and sympathy for you and your family. We love you guys and you will be in our prayers.
M&B
Douglas Hibbard
My heartfelt condolences. Take care, Gar.
We are devastated and will miss our special friendship and our wonderful dinners together. Gar, you are in our thoughts and hearts.