KAREN ELIZABETH BRIGHT (HYDE)

Condolences & Memories (52 entries)

• I had a very brief period of interaction with Karen, mostly by the phone. It speaks to her as a person that I felt like, for a bit, I had a sense of her. I was saddened to hear of this news only a few months ago, after having been away from work for a period of time. I think of her often. My thoughts are with her loved ones. How special that she was in your lives. - Posted by: Tammy Hinsche (Colleague Parks Canada) on: Oct 29, 2014

• I've hardly been able to put my feelings into words, I miss Karen deeply. She was a top-notch person with great wit with a touch of sarcasm and fantastic common sense. She gave me and others great advice. Bill and Kelly, my deepest condolences. - Posted by: Marty Magne (Parks Canada) on: Jan 20, 2014

• Bill, Kelly, family and friends... I am so very sorry for the loss of Karen. In the summers, Bill and Karen would come to our cottage and she always made me feel like a friend even though I was the sister of one of her very many best friends. Karen was always engaged in the conversation, never superficial...she cared, truly cared. Today's tribute to her life was an example of the friendships she had with the many, many people who attended and ALL the kind, serious but funny words, ways and approach that Karen had. She will be a part of many of our memories for years to come. - Posted by: April Frego (Sister of one of her Best Friends) on: Jan 16, 2014

• I am just so saddened and shocked by the news of Karen passing away. Karen was truly a unique woman. So caring, easy to talk to, and had this warmth about her. I have many fond memories of Karen which I will cherish and she will be forever in my heart. It was an absolute pleasure meeting, working and getting to know Karen. What a lady!! She left an impression on me and many others. It is a tragedy that Karen has left us. It just was way too early. I wish to express my sincere condolences to Bill, Kelly and Karen's family and friends. I wish I was nearer to offer my support. Rest in peace beautiful angel. Lots of love Joanne and daughter Olivia XXXXX - Posted by: Joanne Lymperis (Australian Human Resource friend from Parks Victoria) on: Jan 16, 2014

• My heartfelt condolences to Karen's family. Karen was a bright light in our HR family at Parks Canada - as others have indicated with a funny story, good advice, and great smile. She will be truly missed. My prayers are with the family and friends today as they honour a beautiful person. - Posted by: Catherine Bellerose (Parks Canada Collegue) on: Jan 16, 2014

• I was saddened to hear of Karen's passing. She was a wonderful colleague who demonstrated professionalism, compassion, and a keen ability to understand people. She was always willing to jump in and help when needed, or was just there to listen. I will miss you Karen, I hope your spirit continues to shine. - Posted by: Wendy Braithwaite (Colleague from Parks Canada) on: Jan 16, 2014

• Our deepest condolences to you and your family on your loss - Posted by: bob and kris ouellette (friend/co worker) on: Jan 16, 2014

• I had the pleasure of working with Karen for a number of years in Rulings at CRA. Even though we were on Telework, we still managed to spend time together brainstorming, working on training packages and getting together for lunches. When Karen moved on to HR (her real calling) we still continued to get together, along with Karen Martin, a couple of times a year for lunches, where we quickly caught up on all of our lives. I feel honored to have had her as a friend. My condolences to all the family. - Posted by: Janet Ruggles (Co-worker/friend) on: Jan 16, 2014

• We are so very sad to hear of Karen’s passing. My husband Ben and I met Karen, Bill and Kelly during their stay in Australia. Ben worked for Parks Victoria and it was very exciting for me to meet a few fellow Canadians abroad. We both loved Karen and Bill from the start and we were lucky enough to spend time with them all over the globe: in Melbourne, on a houseboat trip on the Murray River, in Vancouver, Winnipeg and at the lake house. I have fond memories of watching Canada beat the US in a gold medal hockey game with Karen, Bill and Kelly at a pub in Melbourne at 7am and of beating Karen in Scrabble (once) on the houseboat. She was not happy! Karen has certainly inspired me to become a better Scrabble player and to take up golf. She was always up for an adventure. It was more than a pleasure to have known her. We’ll miss her cheeky smile and her friendship very much. Bill and Kelly, our deepest and warmest condolences go out to you, and to all of Karen’s close family and friends. We’ll be in touch. - Posted by: Katherine Robertson (Friend) on: Jan 15, 2014

• My deepest condolences to Karen's family and friends. I am, as everyone else is, heartbroken at the loss of someone so dear, considerate and caring. I was lucky to have had the opportunity to work with Karen on the WNSC management team; she was very personable and the ultimate professional. She'll very much be missed. - Posted by: Bran Abe (Work colleague) on: Jan 15, 2014

• We were all deeply saddened to learn of Karen's passing. Karen was such a wonderful person and will be missed by all of us. Her loss will be particularly felt by Bennett who, through his friendship with Kelly, spent considerable time around Karen over the last 15 years or so, at the Bright home, at the lake and even in Australia. Karen was always so good to him. Our hearts go out to Bill and Kelly as they deal with this terrible loss that came far too early. Our sincere condolences. - Posted by: The Faulhammers () on: Jan 15, 2014

• Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Bill, Kelly, Doreen and all of the family. We will always treasure the opportunity we had to get to know Karen through our lake connection--particularly the chats at the dock. She was a warm and engaging person who made you feel like a long time friend. She will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Reg and Reg Sourisseau (Friends) on: Jan 15, 2014

• We were introduced to Karen through Sandy and got to know her via Hen gatherings. She always remembered what we had discussed in previous visits even if it had been months before. She offered great guidance and we loved her sense of humour and quick wit. Our sincerest condolences to all of her family and friends. xo - Posted by: Shannon & Sara (Friends (aspiring hens)) on: Jan 15, 2014

• Our deepest sympathy goes to Bill and Kelly at this very sad time. We will cherish the great memories of happy times spent with Karen, particularly at our holiday house at Port Albert, visiting Tarra Bulga National Park, 90 Mile Beach and Bill will remember the interesting afternoon tea book launch at the historic Port Albert church and Anwarreen and Brian's impromptu Social Butterfly concert in the "Martini Lounge". We think of you often as we watch the TV which was once yours! Karen was a warm and fun-loving person and great to be with. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. - Posted by: Charla and Chris Smith (Friends and work colleague at Parks Victoria, Melbourne, Australia) on: Jan 15, 2014

• My deepest sympathies to you Bill and your son. - Posted by: Rod McDowell (freind/co worker) on: Jan 15, 2014

• My heartfelt condolences to Bill, Kelly and all of Karen's friends and family. I too would like to acknowledge and honour Karen's warmth, intelligence, humour, spirt of adventure and courage. Karen made a lasting professional and personal contribution to park management in two hemispheres, particularly to the people who care for our parks. Rest in peace. - Posted by: Jennifer Wolcott (former colleague Parks Victoria, Australia) on: Jan 14, 2014

• Bill my condolences to you and your family-- We know that Karen was the one for you, that she made you happy. you have all our sympathies and if there anything you need please don't hesitate to ask - Posted by: Tony and Dalene Didoshak (Friends) on: Jan 14, 2014

• Bill and family, so sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Ron and Bev Shafirka (Bill's co-worker at Air Canada) on: Jan 14, 2014

• I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of Karen. She was always a vibrant woman with a zest for life. My condolences to the family. - Posted by: Cheryl Estabrooks (Work Collegue ( CRA and Parks)) on: Jan 14, 2014

• The day that Karen started her job with us in the Western and Northern Service Centre, I knew we would become good friends! She was funny, smart, compassionate, loyal and incredibly professional. Karen was always up for a challenge and willing to try new assignments and take on greater responsibilities. Whenever she was away from the office for any period of time, I really missed her, as I enjoyed my "tea" visits with her each day...talking "shop" or exchanging stories about our families or activites. She was an excellent manager and a wonderful person. She will always be in my thoughts. My sincerest condolences to Bill, Kelly and to all of Karen's extended family. - Posted by: Orysia Luchak (Friend and Colleague from Parks Canada) on: Jan 14, 2014

• Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to all Karen's family and friends. Karen was extremely determined and fully committed to making a significant difference at Parks Canada. Her personal devotion and inspirational leadership contributed significantly to her fulfilling this goal. Karen you will be missed but always remembered. - Posted by: Randy Palmquist (Past Colleague Parks Canada) on: Jan 14, 2014

• Funny, Intelligent, Full of Life, Quick witted, and Fun Loving..…… that’s how I will remember Karen. I know without a doubt that all of us who were fortunate enough to know Karen will never forget her, will always value the time we spent with her, and most importantly, will be smiling as we think of her, even now in memory. She was truly one of a kind. - Posted by: Marc Nedelec (freind) on: Jan 14, 2014

• Please accept my deepest sympathies at this time. Karen and I knew each other as colleagues within the HR community of Parks Canada and I liked and respected her very much. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. - Posted by: Geraldine Shears (Parks Canada HR Colleague) on: Jan 14, 2014

• Karen was a special person. We connected during our Coaching for Managers train the trainers session in Cornwall and continued that friendship as HR colleagues. There was always a smile on her face and a funny story to share. I will miss those laughs. My heartfelt condolences go out to Karen's family. - Posted by: Kathy Hansen (co-worker/friend) on: Jan 14, 2014

• My deepest condolences to Karen's friends and family. I was lucky to have worked with Karen in facilitating her work exchange in Australia. She was a great colleague! She will be missed - Posted by: Veronique Veillette (Work Collegue) on: Jan 14, 2014

• I am very sad to hear of Karen's passing. She was a wonderful person and loved to have fun. I have some great memories from our time working together on coaching training in Cornwall. My heart goes out to her family at this very difficult time. - Posted by: Geoffrey Hancock (Parks Canada collegue) on: Jan 14, 2014

• Please extend my heartfelt condolences to Karen's family and friends. Karen was one of the first managers to greet and welcome me to the human resources community. Her quick wit and passion were remarkable. It was a joy and an honour to have known her. Peace be with you. - Posted by: Joanne Kitamura (Collegue and friend) on: Jan 14, 2014

• My huge condolences go out to Bill and the rest of the family. Karen was a wonderfully warm, fun and superb person. We only knew each other for a short time but she made a real impression, I am also forever thankful for the friendship that she provided Erin, and the way her and your family took her in when she visited canada. I will wear my Winnipeg folk festival t shirt with pride and think of her. I wish the absolute best for Bill and the rest of the family. One day soon, I will repeat this and much more in person. All the best From down under in Australia David Maggs - Posted by: David Maggs (Friend) on: Jan 14, 2014

• Karen and I got to know each other during her exchange with Parks Victoria in Melbourne Australia. I was lucky enough to sit next to Karen and it meant we got to know each other quickly. We realized we had much in common, later my boyfriend David and Karen's husband Bill had alot in common and the four of us spent alot of time together while they were in Australia. Karen and I had many vivid and meandering conversations about our lives – our families, our relationships, having children, growing up, the similarities between Australia and Canada, the HR profession, our careers, our favorite things… list goes on. Karen and I got to spend a huge amount of time together when she was in Australia because we saw each other every day. We walked to get our coffee from the shop below where Karen, Bill and Kelly lived during their first 6 months in Australia in Little Collins Street. Karen always made comments about how much better the coffee was in Australia and how she would miss it when she went home. And would have to teach her local barista the arts of a good coffee! Karen's zest for life and new experiences was just incredible. I remember saying to her 'wow how much work and organizing it must be to pack up your life, your husband, your son's, and come to Australia!' she agreed it did take alot of effort and organisation - but the experience was once in a lifetime and worth the effort a million times over. I actually recall Karen saying 'life is too short to worry about it - just go for it'. During Karen's first 6 months in Australia I suggested coming to Canada to visit. Going to Canada was the trip of my life time. I started in Vancouver and worked my way across the country. Karen helped me plan my entire trip! I was all ready to go to Edmonton when Karen suggested maybe from Vancouver I should go to Jasper and then Banff and that I might enjoy that a bit more…! How right she was. When I arrived at the train station in Winnipeg I was a bit early and thought, gosh I hope they haven’t come and gone. I needn't have worried. Karen, being the born organizer she was had been tracking my travel on the internet and knew the train would be coming in a bit late. I was standing on my own with my bags on the other side of the world for about 5 minutes when I saw Karen and Bill rush in and look around for me. I honestly feel so excited when I think about this moment! It had been 2 and half weeks since I had seen anyone I knew, I’d been sleeping in shared hostel dorms and drinking with backpackers every night. I was ready for a room on my own, some familiar faces and a hug. Karen and Bill did not disappoint. They came rushing in, saw me, ran over and all shared a huge hug and kiss. Karen and Bill drove me back to their place, pointing out a few sights along the way, heated up some pizza, poured me a beer, chatted for a while then showed me to my own room. The hospitality was amazing. Generous, intuitive and loving. I slept really well that night. Karen and I went to the Winnipeg Folk Festival the following day and I got to experience something Karen and her friends had been doing since their youth. Karen shared many stories with me that weekend. She told me about her friends Kim and Sandy and Lois. I got to see Karen in her most natural state, amongst the people that she loved and had known her forever. I learnt that a stubby holder was a ‘beer cosy’ and a sausage was a ‘wiener’ and a Caesar was not a Bloody Mary it was a Canadian drink all on its own. Made with ‘Clamato Juice’. Amongst other things! I was so touched to see Billy had added own variety of Canadian kindness – an Australian flag placed neatly at the bag of the RV for me to parade around with! Which I did! That was typical ‘Bright’ behavior to me. Doing thoughtful things for people and not telling them. Just waiting to be discovered. I felt so welcomed by all of Karen’s oldest friends. They were an eclectic, interesting, inclusive group of people and even though I was on the other side of the world I felt at ease, at home and in good company. The last meal I shared with Karen and Bill was around about their last night in Australia in 2011. My boyfriend David and I went over to their house in Clifton Hill and Karen made a pasta dish with prawns which she had carefully de-veined. She made her own croutons out of day old bread and pan fried them. We had a big salad and a bottle of wine and probably a few beers. It’s actually the meal that stands out to me. Karen was a fabulous cook in a really effortless way. She wasn't expecting over the top thanks or praise because it was quite normal for her to cook that kind of food. I was blown away. It was a lovely warm night and we talked and talked and reflected on their experience which was coming to an end. On the day of Karen and Bill’s departure I left work and went to Clifton Hill, picked them up, and drove them to Melbourne airport. We said our goodbyes and Karen joked that the next time she would be back in Australia was for David and my wedding. We all laughed. I parked illegally and hugged and hugged Karen. We weren't worried about staying in touch. She had made such an effect on me, played such an important role in my personal and professional development, I knew we would always be friends. If I could talk to Karen I would say - my dear, dear friend Karen. You fought a long and good fight. I feel a deep regret that I didn’t get to speak to you before you left us but you know that I, and all the Australians on the other side of the world blessed enough to know you and have you in their lives, love you and will honor your memory forever. You were a wonderful, bright light of love, wisdom, kindness, loyalty, fun and vibrancy in all our lives. I feel blessed to have known Karen, Bill, Kelly and all the Bright family and friends of Karen. All my deepest sympathy, condolences and love to Bill, Kelly, Doreen and all of Karen's family, friends and extended network. Karen will always be in my mind and heart. I will miss her deeply. All my love Erin xx - Posted by: Erin Pratt (Australian friend from Parks Victoria) on: Jan 14, 2014

• So sorry to hear of Karen's passing. Karen and myself had a lot of fun at the lake every summer growing up and these are memories that I will never forget. She was such a fun loving girl and I am so glad that I am able to call you a relative but she has left us all too soon! - Posted by: Helen Chapman (Hyde) (cousin) on: Jan 13, 2014

• To dear Bill and Kelly, All your friends at Parks Victoria are thinking of you, and wishing we could be nearer to you than the other side of the world. Karen was a much loved and respected colleague in the HR Team at Parks Victoria. We all remember happy times at "Choppers", as well as Karen's insightful and caring contribution to our work team. Karen will be missed by many, and remembered fondly. - Posted by: Michael Smith (Colleague at Parks Victoria, in Melbourne Australia) on: Jan 13, 2014

• To Bill and your family, we offer our deepest sympathy and are thinking of you during this difficult time. We will see you in the summer! - Posted by: Jack & Linda Benstead () on: Jan 13, 2014

• During Karen’s time in Australia she touched so many people with her positivity, supportive nature and great sense of humour. We sat next to one another at Parks Victoria and worked on some key HR projects which will always be a positive memory for me. Bill and Kelly my thoughts are with you. - Posted by: Rene Braden (Work Colleague) on: Jan 13, 2014

• It is with great sadness that we in Parks Victoria heard about Karen. During her exchange program with us we came to see Karen as a truly wonderful person who was committed to managing parks for all people. She brought a richness in experience and culture to Parks Victoria and was able to share this with her many friends that she made here. She soon became a valued team member and will sadly be missed by all who knew her. On behalf of Parks Victoria I wish to convey my condolences to her family and to Parks Canada We will miss her Rocky Barca Parks Victoria - Posted by: Rocky Barca (Colleague from Parks Victoria) on: Jan 13, 2014

• Karen was a wonderful person and will be missed. My deepest sympathy is extended to all her family and friends. - Posted by: Marlow Pellatt (Work Colleague) on: Jan 13, 2014

• Our sincere condolences to you and your family Bill! We remember our all too short time together with you guys at Linda's, with everyone of the "Group". Her smile, sense of humor, and great personality still shower our memories. She will be missed my friend, but never forgotten. So sorry for your loss, your friends Cliff and Darlene. - Posted by: Cliff and Darlene Johnston (Friends) on: Jan 13, 2014

• Condolences to Karen's family. She was so lively and full of life. As an HR person she could be relied on to assist and as Lori Boast said, help colleagues to use the right words when necessary. Susanne Sutherland - Posted by: Susanne Sutherland (colleague from Parks Canada) on: Jan 13, 2014

• At a loss for words upon hearing this news with thoughts immediately moving to Bill and Kelly in the hopes that they are ok. My deepest sympathies to you both and to all of Karen's family. Karen was an amazing lady. One of the best I have met. We met on a work exchange to Australia where we spent many memorable moments with Karen, Bill and Kelly that we will cherish for the rest of our lives. Both at work and at play Karen was always a pleasure to be around and I learned a lot from her. RIP Karen, I am happy that you are no longer in pain, but selfishly wishing you were still here. Bill and Kelly, we are thinking about you and wish we could be there to show our support. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Anwareen Farouk and Brian Lake (Colleague and friend) on: Jan 13, 2014

• Although I only had the good fortune of working with Karen for a brief period of time, what I came to learn very quickly was that she was the living embodiment of integrity. She was very passionate about her work and she had a refreshing ability to be honest and speak the truth. I admire her a great deal. We have lost a shining star at Parks Canada. Karen will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to Karen's family and close friends. - Posted by: Dahlia McKrae (colleague - Parks Canada) on: Jan 13, 2014

• Mitch had known Karen since she was young growing up in the same neighbourhood in St. Vital. Darlene met Karen 25 years ago from Lloyds/HSBC Bank. We ran into Karen and Bill many years ago when our boys played hockey. Karen was one of the funniest and kindest personS one could meet. She left us way too young. Our sincere condolences. - Posted by: Darlene and Mitch Grenier (Friends) on: Jan 13, 2014

• Karen Bright was the best of the best! In a time of horrific federal down-sizing, Karen extended magnificent support, direction and guidance for all those in Parks Canada who lost their jobs or were displaced. Karen rose beyond the call and worked tirelessly (and against great adversity) to steady a floundering ship. I owe Karen so much for her professional integrity and her wonderful kindness and friendship. She’ll be missed for sure. I offer my deepest sympathies to all of Karen’s family, friends and co-workers. - Posted by: Paul Legris (former co-worker and friend) on: Jan 13, 2014

• SO SORRY TO LEARN OF YOUR LOSS BILL...OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME... - Posted by: CONNIE AND DOUGALL MCCORMICK (FRIENDS) on: Jan 13, 2014

• I was so sorry to hear of Karen's illness and passing. Karen and I worked closely together in Human Resources, first in the regional office of CRA, and then on the Manitoba HR Council. She was an absolute pleasure to work with...so genuine, funny, intelligent, and passionate. I'm one of many colleagues from CRA who miss her already. My heartfelt thoughts and condolences to Bill, Kelly, Chuck, Lisa, and the rest of the family. May her memories live on. - Posted by: Connie Kehler (Colleague) on: Jan 13, 2014

• To my beautiful sister-in-law Karen you were always a wonderful caring and loving person. You always made time for me when I came out to visit. I will miss you so very much. R I P Love Carolyn, Peter amd Billy xoxo - Posted by: Carolyn Malcolm (Sister-In-Law) on: Jan 13, 2014

• Our deepest sympathy goes out to the Hydes and the Brights. The world has lost an incredible woman. We will both miss Karen dearly but know that she has gone on to a much better place. Be at peace Karen. Until we meet again. Bye for now. - Posted by: Lesley and Paul Antonsen (Friends) on: Jan 13, 2014

• It has been a long time since Karen and I worked together at the Bank in Winnipeg. She was a great addition to the team back then and we all had a lot of fun together with her and Bill - too much fun some might say! I knew Bill from hockey days growing up and you guys were a great pair and fun to be around. Very sorry for your family for your loss. - Posted by: Drew Single (Ex-coworker at HSBC in Winnipeg) on: Jan 13, 2014

• Mr. Bright and family, sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts are with you at this time. Sending you a big hug your way. - Posted by: Leesa Johnson () on: Jan 13, 2014

• My heart and thoughts are with Karen's family and close friends. She was a smart, beautiful and thoughtful person. I feel priveleged to have known her. She will be deeply missed by all her Parks Canada friends. - Posted by: Lianne Wright (work colleague - Parks Canada) on: Jan 13, 2014

• We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to all of Karen's immediate and extended family. She truly was a special person, and made me laugh many times at the hen gatherings. I will never forget her very kind and gentle ways. Karen's spirit will live on in all our memories of time spent in sharing henage. May you rest in peace Karen, until we meet again............Love Gaetanne. - Posted by: Gaetanne & Brian Farley (Friend & Fellow Hen) on: Jan 13, 2014

• It seems like I’ve known Karen for my entire career with the Govt. I first met her in GST, when she joined the team, and she helped me correct my somewhat inappropriate message to the new people on our floor. Frustrated with a messy bathroom, I put up a note asking folks to clean up after themselves. Karen came to me and discussed a nicer way to word it. She was exactly that- a take-charge mediator who could see both sides immediately and gave a medium ground that created harmony for all. She started at Parks a couple years after I moved there and I was excited to see her again. She was calm, yet you could always see the live wire just underneath. Brimming with wit and humour, yet cool and collected. She was also incredibly real, she always had a large supply of common sense. I’m so sorry for her loss for her family and close friends. The workplace will not be the same without her. - Posted by: Lori Boast (coworker/ freind) on: Jan 13, 2014

• Karen was very nice to our daughter Carol when Carol joined "Jobies". They attended many meetings together. They are now together once again. RIP lovely ladies. Our thoughts are with the family at this time. - Posted by: Walton's () on: Jan 13, 2014

• My heartfelt condolences to Karen's family. I have worked with Karen over the years and I respected and liked her very much. My heart is heavy to hear that she has passed on much too early. - Posted by: Tara Schmitt (work collegue) on: Jan 13, 2014