Obituary of Karen Margaret Gooding
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Karen Margaret Gooding (Goodie) on July 27, 2024. Karen, a beloved mother, daughter, sister, friend, and educator, lost her courageous battle with cancer at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton with her four adult children at her bedside. Karen’s warmth and generosity touched many throughout her 65 years.
She was predeceased by her father, Lowry Forgay (1998), her husband, Rick Grove (2022), and her stepfather, Ivan Mains (2024). Her spirit continues to live on through those she is survived by; her mother, Mabel Mains (nee Knutson, Forgay), her brothers, Warren and Bill Forgay and their families, including nieces Allison Gray (husband Charles, children Coltan and Hayden) and Kimberley Kruchkowski (husband Tim). Karen’s legacy is also carried forward by her four cherished children: Chris, Heather, Stephanie, and Scott Gooding, as well as many cousins, extended family, friends, colleagues, and students who hold her memory dear.
Karen was born to Lowry and Mabel Forgay on November 5, 1958, in Estevan, Saskatchewan and at age 3, the family moved to Red Deer, Alberta. Growing up in a close-knit community, she first attended school at West Park Elementary (1964-1970), then West Park Middle School (1970-1973), finally graduating from Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School in 1976.
On July 29, 1977, Karen married Steve Gooding and together they had four children: Chris (1983), Heather (1988), Stephanie (1990), and Scott (1994) to whom she devoted her life. In 2013, Karen married Rick Grove, and they remained together until Rick’s unfortunate passing in 2022.
Karen’s passion for learning and helping others led her to studies at University of Calgary and Red Deer College, as well as working in the Rehabilitation Services field at Michener Centre in Red Deer.
In March of 1981, Karen embarked on a career path that would define her lifelong dedication to service of others. She was instrumental in the development of the Transitional Vocational Program (TVP) at Red Deer College, an employment and life-skills training program for adults with developmental disabilities. Karen cherished this role until her retirement in February 2021, one month shy of 40 years. She also sat on the Employment Placement and Support Services (EPSS) board since 1986, holding a variety of board positions. She left a lasting impact on colleagues and students, becoming a life-long friend and mentor to many of those she helped along the way.
Her dedication to her students was paralleled only by her devotion to her family and faith. Karen believed in the potential of every individual and worked tirelessly to ensure that those around her had the support and resources necessary to succeed. Her influence extended far beyond the walls of Red Deer College and Michener Centre, and into the hearts and lives of everyone she knew.
Goodie’s home was always a hub of warmth and gathering, often filled with aromas of fresh food or baking, and the sound of shared stories or laughter. She relished in hosting Bible Study, family dinners, and small gatherings for her friends. Any excuse to share her kitchen skills and dote on others brought her great joy. Her good-natured sense of humour, goofiness, and love for 1970's rock music were highlights of her fun personality.
As we say goodbye to Karen, we celebrate a life that exemplified compassion, resilience, and patience. Her unwavering spirit and the lessons she imparted will continue to inspire and guide us all. Karen’s journey was one of purpose, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and service that will continue to resonate within the community she always treasured.
A service for Karen is being held at the Living Stones Church (2020 40 Ave, Red Deer) on Friday September 27, 2024, at 11:00 am. For those not in attendance the service will be live streamed at https://www.livingstones.ab.ca/live/
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either the Cross Cancer Institute (https://albertacancer.ca/donate/) or the Sandra Schmirler Foundation https://sandraschmirler.org/en/ways-to-give/. Condolences to Karen’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate "Gooding" in the subject line.
Arrangements in care of
Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service
A locally owned cremation and funeral provider
serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta
587-876-4944