Mighton Funeral Home LTD.
Funerals, Cremations & Life Celebrations
40 Years of Trusted Care
Ayton, Durham, Elmwood, Chesley and surrounding areas since 1984.
Karen Pettigrew Gordon (nee Schenk), of Hanover, passed away suddenly after a brief illness with loved ones by her side at Hanover and District Hospital on Wednesday, November 30, 2022. She was 81.
Karen was born on November 2, 1941 to the late George and Mary (nee Fleming) Schenk. She was the 3rd out of 7 children in her tight-knit family. She had a love for animals and there were numerous pets who soon became family members throughout her life. She was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Neustadt and enjoyed the spirit of community through worship and time with others. She was feisty yet had a very kind heart that will be missed by all. She was sharp-witted, vivacious and strong. She had a heart bigger than life and always put the needs of others before her own. Her fireball personality, hilarious storytelling, camping adventures and her creative cooking skills will forever be remembered. She was the glue that kept her family together, and as a family, we will honour the legacy of love that she has left for us to continue.
Karen is survived by husband John "Jack" Gordon of Hanover. She was dear mother of Marsha (Willy) Blum of Owen Sound, Dave (Cindy) Pettigrew of Hanover, Peter Pettigrew of Owen Sound, Philip Pettigrew of Toronto and Melissa (Todd) Henkusens of Ayton. Karen was the grandmother of her many special grandchildren including Laura (Ryne), Ashley (Dillon), Allison (Craig), Emily (Brent), Brittany, Jill (Trevor), Ashley (James), Rylan (Anna), Brianna (Nick), Zach, Brock, Alanna and Tarin. She was adored by her great grandchildren Joshua, Chloe, Savannah, Cole, Beckett, Taylor and Jordan. Karen will be fondly remembered by her siblings Shirley (Hugh) Black of Newport, Rhode Island, Jack (Helen) Schenk of Tobermory, Suzanne (Randi) Crewson of Barrie and George (Donna) Schenk of Kitchener. She will be missed by many nieces, nephews and their families. Karen will be remembered by her very best friends, Joe and Lynn Pickering of Hanover. She was predeceased by first husband Paul Pettigrew (2001), sisters Mary Ellen Brookshaw (2021) and Judy Weech (2022).
To honour her wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial come and go is planned for early spring in the New Year with information to follow.
Memorial donations to the Hanover & District Hospital Foundation or to the Grey-Bruce Animal Shelter would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
I am so sorry to hear of Karen's passing and my sincere sympathies go out to you Jack, Helen and families.
I have special memories of Karen during our high school years. She was a wonderful, caring person.
My vivid memory I have of Karen is at Tobermory. We had a great evening playing at the beach where Helen and Jack's beautiful house is now situated. My condolences to the family.
- Teri RobertsonHi Jack, Helen and family. Sorry to read about your sister.
Love the descriptive words: feisty and vivacious Good for her. We are sure there have been many memories shared amongst your very large family as your sister would have wished .
Love to all Jim and Linda Palmer
Our sincere condolences to Jack and all the Pettigrew and Schenk families. Karen & Jack, great neighbours at Country Village. RIP Karen
- Wally & Carol HallidayMy condolence to you Jack in the passing of Karen. I remember sharing many interesting conversations with her at the Walkerton Court House (where we all survived) somehow? Sincerely, Peter
- Peter CarterMy vivid memory I have of Karen is at Tobermory. We had a great evening playing at the beach where Helen and Jack's beautiful house is now situated. My condolences to the family.
- Teri RobertsonPhil, I am so sorry to hear about your Mom's passing! I wish there was more I could do to help you through this time of sorrow. Be strong and surrounded yourself with her memories!
Phil,
I'm so sad to hear about your Mother's passing. I'm thinking about you. Sending lots of love to you and your family.
XO Paulette, Marc & Dax Sauriol
we are so sorry for your loss and we have done a donation to the Hanover Hospital
hugs Sandra and Rick, Earlleen and Astrid
So sorry to hear of your mom's passing. She was truly one of a kind with a great sense of humour. Our condolences to your whole family.
My deepest sympathy to Jack, and also the Pettigrew family. Karen was a great friend and I have many happy memories.
Eleanor McLeod
I am so sorry to hear of your dear mom's passing. Karen was a fire cracker. Unforgettable memories of our dads working together for Bruce County Highways. from the '70's and early '80's, including and undoubtedly foremost, hilarious quips from your mom that my family has quoted over the years - still do! - and laughed with fond and warm affection. Karen was one-of-a-kind. Thinking of all the Pettigrew 'kids' at this difficult time. Sending love and a big thank you to your mom for saying it from her heart. Beth
So sad to hear of Karens passing, I was lucky enough to have a little visit with Karen this summer in Tobermory. Sending my deepest condolences to the family.
- Heather MunnSending love and prayers to Peter and his family
- Tish walmselySo sorry to hear of Karen's passing. I grew up with the Schenk family in Wiarton and they were a great family back in the 50's.. And Karen was just as described back then only more so!
Had a recent connection with Jack and my dad (Hubert) was always a big fan of his building and construction skills.so sad to lose two siblings in one year....
condolences to the whole family
Melissa, Todd & family:
Our heartfelt condolences to you on the passing of your Mom/Grandma. Hugs to each of you...
with our caring & prayers,
Gwynne & Gary
Our deepest sympathies to all Karen's family and friends. She was a beautiful lady and will be missed.
- Brian and Jane HaackOur deepest sympathy to all. We will miss Karen's great laugh, chuckles & hugs at St Peter's.
- Robert & Linda Klagesdeepest sympathies at this time of great loss.
Gerry and Linda Knechtel
Our deepest sympathy to the Pettigrew family,I remember your mom from visiting at the lake.Keep your memories close to your heart,Ron & Lori Paulitzki and Family❤️
- Ron &Lori PaulitzkiSorry about the loss of your mother and mother in-law Dave and Cindy and family hugs
- Kim and Dennis wettlauferWe are saddened to hear of the passing of Karen. She was so friendly and fun loving, a lovely lady. She will be missed by all who knew her. Our sincere condolences to all her family.
Al & Lorraine
