Karen Grace Newman

Karen Grace Newman, B.Comm, CPA, CA, ICD.D (née Daffern), passed away peacefully with her husband by her side at Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital in Orillia following a long and difficult health journey. 

She is survived by her loving husband, Dan; their daughter Alanna (Stuart) Clark, granddaughter Victoria, son James (Pearl) Newman, mother Marion Daffern, sister Katherine (Dave) Evans, brother Brian (Rosalie) Daffern, as well as her mother-in-law Anne Newman, and sister-in-law Debbie (Shane) Whitman, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Karen will join her father James Daffern and father-in-law Victor Newman in heaven. 

Karen was born in Toronto, spending much of her life in Scarborough, before retiring to Orillia. Karen graduated from the University of Toronto with an honours Bachelor of Commerce before starting her career as a Chartered Accountant. She spent many years working for Hydro One as Vice President, Corporate Controller. Later in life she was extremely proud to have completed the Rotman School of Management’s Corporate Directorship Course and holds an ICD.D designation. She also served on the boards of Hydro One Brampton and Toronto Community Housing Corporation. Karen was also a Lecturer at the University of Toronto teaching fourth year Advanced Auditing. 

Karen met her husband Dan while they were high school students at R.H. King, although they did not begin their relationship until after they both graduated from U of T. Dan's steadfast pursuit won her over and sustained her for almost 35 years of marriage. 

Karen was an active member of the St. James’ Anglican Church community in Orillia, and her strong faith played an important part in her battle with illness. She enjoyed giving back to her community through various charitable causes and loved spending time with her family, celebrating many happy moments at the cottage and while travelling. 

Karen and her family are deeply grateful to the staff at Trillium Manor for their love and outstanding care for Karen in her final years. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Trillium Manor General Fund. Laura Banks would be pleased to facilitate any donations. She can be reached by phone at (705) 325-1504 ext 4003, or by email at laura.banks@simcoe.ca. This will support the areas of most need for the residence and to enhance the residents’ experience while in Trillium’s care. 

Visitation will occur on Thursday September 5th and Friday September 6th from 5:00 – 8:00 PM each evening at Mundell Funeral Home. The funeral will take place on Saturday, September 7th at 11:00 AM at St. James’ Anglican Church, Orillia. A reception will follow.