Karen Appleton (née O'Donnell)
On 3 September, after a short illness, Karen passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love,
aged 62 years.
Dearly loved and treasured wife of Gary Appleton. Eldest daughter of Willie and Robyn O'Donnell.
Sister to Linda, Marina, Kim and Glen. Cherished mother of Anna and Jason.
Treasured Nana to Jasmine, Jhayden, Harrison and Emmy. Much loved Great Nana to Esmae.
Messages to Karen Appleton's Family c/- Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, PO Box 9, Blenheim 7240 or www.cloudybayfuneralservices.co.nz.
We wish to express our gratitude to everyone who has supported Karen, Gary, and the family with their kindness and generosity throughout this journey.
A funeral service for Karen will be held at the Springlands Chapel, Cloudy Bay Funeral Services, 15 Boyce Street Blenheim on Tuesday 9th September at 1.00pm followed by her burial at Tua Marina Cemetery.
This service will be live streamed and can be viewed on the Cloudy Bay Funeral Service Website.
CLOUDY BAY FUNERAL SERVICES BLENHEIM F.D.A.N.Z.
Service Details
Springlands Chapel
Cloudy Bay Funeral Services
15 Boyce Street
Blenheim
Tuesday 9 September 2025
1.00pm
Please note, three camera views are available when watching a service at our Springlands Chapel. Select at top right of viewing screen.
From - Lisa
Haere pai, tΕ«hoe ki te rangi, i te wairua o te aroha
From - Malcolm Adams
To Willie and Robyn
It is with great sadness that I learn of Karen’s passing so please accept my sincere condolences at this difficult time
and I offer huge hugs of strength as you deal with this tremendous shock ππΊπΉ
From - Marion and Doug Hogarth
To Robyn, Willie and family, please accept our sincere condolences for the loss of your beautiful daughter.
Sending love , strength and prayers as you journey through this difficult time.
From - Bev Moore
It is with much sadness that you will be farewell. Karen you gave so much to so many children,
their families and wider communities in the schools where you have been the leader.
Your warmth, kindness and commitment was evident every day as was your wonderful sense of humor.
Your contribution to so many young people, staff and students will continue into the years.
You have passed too young and will be greatly missed by your family and friends.
It was my pleasure and privilege to have worked with you, farewell and rest in peace
Bev Moore
From - Gary & Sue Lawrence
To Willie & Robyn
So sorry to hear of Karen passing away our condolences and thoughts are with you.
Gary & Sue Lawrence
From Jo, Renwick Medical Centre
Dear Gary and family,
We are so very sad to hear of Karen's passing. Karen was a fabulous supporter of our rural clinic and a lovely,
kind lady that was a joy to work with. Karen will be missed so very much.
Jo & the team at Renwick Medical Centre
From - Lee Vivian
With sadness I’m writing this to the most beautiful, positive, precious angel, I met while working for RedHot Fashion, and having to tell you I was heading back to Christchurch was heartbreaking π Our friendship was so honest, we talked about our families and how important they were to us, the proud mums we were. You were always so special, you put smiles on so many faces including mine, thank you for the beautiful memories, it felt like I’d known you for a lifetime. Forever in my heart. Rest in love beautiful Soul, my thoughts and condolences are with you and your beautiful family today at this very sad time for all. May her love follow you always
π¦ππ Lee π¦ππ
From - Stacey Goodwin
Karen's Family and WVS Family,
Thinking of you all during this difficult time. May Atua bring you comfort and peace, and may memories of Karen bring light during these dark days. Know that you are in our thoughts, and we are here for you. Mauri ora and kia kaha.
From - Naomi & Ernie
RIL Karen, all our love to Gary and Karen’s family at this sad time xx
From - Artesia Collins
I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss. Mrs O was so welcoming and understanding.
I wish I could’ve said goodbye, as she was a big person in my life that I will always look up to.
You weren’t just a principal to us you were like family and you treated all of your students like family, so thank you.
We will always forever cherish your sarcasm. Thanks you Mrs O. And to her family members, or anyone,
I’m incredibly sorry for your loss. π€
From - Dion & Rosemary Ombler and the Australian family
We are so sorry to hear of Karen's passing and join in sending our heartfelt condolences.
Your grief will be immense as you farewell Karen and while we sadly didn't have an opportunity to meet Dion's niece,
we have heard wonderful accounts of her valued qualities and special place she held in your hearts.
Sending love, Rosemary, Dion and family.
