Karen Ardis Kalesnikoff Obituary

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Karen Kalesnikoff, a beloved wife, family member, and friend. Karen was the cherished wife of Doug Kalesnikoff, and her kindness and love touched everyone who knew her. Doug and Karen met in the Caribbean island of St. Kitts and this spring, celebrated 25 years together, surrounded by family and friends.

Karen loved spending time with family and friends, enjoying good food and connecting with others through playing games. Karen brought laughter, determination, and a bright spirit to every game she played, creating memories filled with joy and togetherness. Just as memorable was her kindness—she was always ready to help, listen, and lift others up. She will be fondly remembered for her generosity, and her playful heart will be cherished forever.

Karen loved her two doggies, Kalee (Baby Girl) and Brinlee. She also became an avid golfer and particularly liked golfing in the Rocky Mountains. One of her wishes was to have a place on a golf course and that came to fruition in 2016 when we purchased a place in Radium Hot Springs next to a tee box of the Springs Golf course.

Karen's faith was a source of strength with which she faced every obstacle. She faced life's challenges with courage and grace, inspiring those around her with her quiet resilience and unwavering trust.

She will be lovingly remembered by her stepchildren Nicole (Daved) Meakin and Matt (Kelsie) Kalesnikoff, and her adored grandchildren Aliya, Hailey, and Cody Meakin, as well as Abigail and Victoria Kalesnikoff. Karen also shared a special bond with her sister-in-law Pat (Randy) Gillies.

Karen's family includes her father, Arthur Richardson; and stepmother, Benedicta Samuels; her half-brothers, Clyde (Gardenia) Richardson and Cleon (Crystal) Richardson; and many dear aunts and uncles, Phyllis Richardson, Sheila Lewis, Althea Kellman, Rita Pemberton, and Vealet Pemberton. She will also be remembered by her uncle, Denrick (Yuki) Richardson; and numerous cousins, Brenda Jeffers-Blackman, Yvonne Jeffers, Alphonso Browne, Calvin Nicholls, Terrrance Jeffers, and Wilmoth Browne.

Karen was predeceased by her mother, Melvina Pemberton; her mother-in-law, Betty Kalesnikoff; her aunts, Louvina Browne and Anita Brookes; her cousins, Yvette Nicholls, Wesley Jeffers, and Gloria Jeffers; and her little doggie Kalee.

A Funeral Service celebrating Karen's life will be held at Hillcrest Funeral Home (210 Wess Road) in Saskatoon, on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM. Arrangements entrusted to Hillcrest Funeral Home, 306-992-0283.

Pall Bearers: Matt Kalesnikoff Daved Meakin.