Karen Jeanette London (née McQuigge)

In Loving Memory
August 5, 1946 – May 3, 2024 

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Karen London, a truly remarkable woman whose love touched everyone around her.

Karen, affectionately known as Gmak, GG, Nama and Grandma, was a devoted wife, mother, stepmother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend.

Karen leaves behind her loving husband of 29 years, Brian London, and her sons Mickey Chartrand, Jeff Chartrand, Stacy Chartrand, and Steven (Michelle) London. Her daughter Rachel Templeton (Dwayne) also mourns her loss. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Raelee (Jordan) Meinecke, Jaren Chartrand, Ryan Templeton (Amanda), Teya Templeton, Livia and Lily Templeton, Lainey McMurdo, Oliver, Charlie, and Baby Jack London, will deeply miss her. Also mourning her loss is her special family friends Bonnie Paley (Chartrand) and Linda Porter.

Karen was predeceased by her mother, Hazel McQuigge; her brothers, Robert and Gordie McQuigge; and her previous husband, Peter Chartrand.

Born in Orland, Ontario, Karen made her home in East Winnipeg. She was the cool grandma everyone wished they had, whose family adventures ranged from attempting to mountain climb, ziplining, kayaking and who even accompanied her grandchildren to get their first tattoos. Karen loved her trips with Brian, especially to their favorite destination, Puerto Vallarta.

Her love for her family knew no bounds. GG/Gmak cherished the time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating special bonds through simple pleasures like back scratches, traveling the province to watch her grandkids play sports, and baking sessions with Brian and the grandkids. The grandchildren thoroughly enjoyed their time in grandma’s awesome pool. She also loved making treats for her beloved furry grandbabies. Karen’s daughter, Rachel will be desperately missing their daily supper time phone chats. We will also miss her telling us to clean up our mess.

Professionally, Karen was as dedicated as they come. Throughout her career as an administrative secretary with Winnipeg CFS, she earned respect for her dedication and no-nonsense approach. She was a source of strength and wisdom, always ready to offer support or a piece of sage advice.

In retirement, Karen enjoyed diamond art crafts, baking, and playing bingo with Brian. Known for binge-watching the news, Netflix, and Bill Maher, she also loved taking care of her plants, decorating her beautiful home, and most of all, spending time with her grandchildren. Karen also enjoyed shopping with her “Honey Bunny” (Teya). Karen also enjoyed watching her favorite NHL hockey team, the Winnipeg Jets, live or on TV!

Though Karen maybe no longer with us physically, her spirit remains a beacon of love. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the profound impact she had on us all. Karen will forever be in our hearts, dearly missed but always remembered by everyone lucky enough to have known her.

In her memory, please cuddle your sweet babies, play a game of Kinsmen Bingo, or cheer on the Winnipeg Jets.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Cancer Care Manitoba, Siloam Mission or your local animal shelter.

As per Karen’s wishes, there will not be a service. Instead, there will be a close family/friend supper gathering, with grand and great-grandchildren running around everywhere. Her loving husband, Brian, will be spreading her ashes in Puerto Vallarta.