Nécrologie de Karen Oke

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden but peaceful passing of Karen Oke at the age of 58.

She was predeceased by her beloved parents, Lorna and Eric Oke, and carried their memory close to her heart throughout her life. She was the beloved wife of Mike Lesyk, a devoted and loving mother to Joey (Amanda), Kristin, Jeff, Taylor (Simon), and Michelle, and she was a proud and adoring Nana K to her grandchildren Drew, Brei, and Alivia. Karen will also be deeply missed by her beloved siblings, Debra, Grant, and Leanne, as well as her many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues.

Karen was deeply loved and will be missed beyond words. She had a fierce love for her children and an unforgettable passion for horses — the only thing she was more passionate about than her horses was her family. Her children were her greatest pride, and she never missed a chance to show it. She spoke about them with joy and stood by them through everything.

She adored her husband Mike with all her heart. He was her rock, her partner, and her best friend for 28 years. Their love was strong, full of laughter, and built to last.

Karen was known for her big spirit and even bigger voice — you always knew when she was in the room (even if you weren’t in the same one!). She loved to laugh, dance, and enjoy a good drink with the people she loved. But she also cherished her routine — especially her 3 p.m. naps and a schedule that kept her grounded.

She was a perfect mix of fire and warmth, strength and softness. Her love, her energy, and her pride in her family will always be remembered. She was one of a kind — and always will be.

A private burial will be held with her immediate family.

We invite you to join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Alexandria Curling Club, 138 Main St. South, Alexandria, ON K0C 1A0, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

In honour of her vibrant spirit, the family kindly requests that guests wear colourful attire—no black, please.

For those who wish, donations can be made to A Horse Tale Rescue (www.ahtrescue.org) in honour of Karen’s lifelong love of horses.

A Tree of Remembrance will be planted in the McAlpine Forever Forest in Karen's name.