Karen Simonsen, 71, of Vero Beach, passed away peacefully and surrounded by her family on Oct. 2, 2014, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
She is survived by close family and countless friends hwo love her.
She was the beloved wife of Gene Simonsen and loving mother of Katherine Vaughan, Clinton Vaughan, Margaret Vaughan and Elizabeth Vaughan.
Simonsen was born in Manhasset, N.Y., daughter of the late Johnny Van Name and William Glatfelter.
She attended Ripon College and afterward settled in New York where she raised her family. She devoted her time to working with charities such as the Junior League and Family & Children’s Association. In 2001, Simonsen moved to Vero Beach and settled in John’s Island where she became an active member of the John’s Island community, making many contributions during her 14 years there.
Simonsen created social platforms within the community for people to connect and feel welcomed and valued. Some of her accomplishments include, The New Comer’s Club, Friends Making Friends and Pub Night. In doing so, she created social traditions that will last forever.
Simonsen was an extraordinary woman which no words can truly express. Her vitality, strength, kindness, determination and friendliness were inspirational and affected everyone around her. The outgoing way she loved people made her so special and truly one of a kind. She was a very wise woman, who you could always count on to offer truth, delivered in the most sincere and heartfelt way. She impacted so many lives and was admired and adored by everyone who crossed her path. Her endless sense of humor was contagious and she always wanted to make people laugh, even in sadness.
She was a bright shining light who enriched everyone’s life who knew her. She will forever be remembered as a loving and devoted spouse, loving mother and true friend to all. Simonsen was truly larger than life and will always be loved and forever missed. Having her as part of our lives was a true blessing we will always cherish.
In lieu of flowers, Simonsen asked that donations be directed to support the University of Florida’s Center for Movement Disorders, PO Box 100243, Gainesville FL 32610-0243 or VNA/Hospice House Foundation, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32963. There will be a Celebration of Life at 12 p.m. on Nov. 6, at John’s Island Golf Club. A guest book is available at www.strunkfuneralhome.com.
