Karin Elisabeth Golling
Feb. 5, 1947 – Oct. 13, 2024

It is with great sadness and deep sorrow we announce the sudden passing of our dear friend Karin Elisabeth Golling, on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024, in Rocky Mountain House.

All who had the pleasure of knowing Karin will be forever touched by her absence.

Karin will be cherished and forever remembered by her stepchildren Kelly (Claire) and Donna; cousin Alan (Shelia); friends that became her sisters: Carolyn Richardson, Wendy Fowler, Penny Langford and Irene Kerklaan; her stand-in nieces Terri Shimenosky and family and Colleen Collins and family; and her extended friends at ROAR.

Karin was predeceased by her parents, Philip and Elisabeth Golling.
Before her time in Rocky Mountain House, Karin lived in North Vancouver, where she distinguished herself as an accomplished synchronized swimmer. Her grace, sleekness, and beauty in the water were a testament to her dedication and talent.

Karin’s unwavering compassion for animals was evident in her many hours spent with ROAR in Rocky Mountain House, where she dedicated herself to fundraising and fostering countless dogs and cats in need of a loving home. Karin was also a long-time committee member of the Rocky Mountain House Air Show, contributing her time and energy to ensure its success. In addition to her love for animals and her commitment to community service, Karin had a passion for crafting. She enjoyed cross-stitch and crochet, creating beautiful pieces that will be treasured by friends and family members.

Above all, Karin’s greatest passion was her friends, who she considered her beloved family. She cherished the moments they spent together, whether it was during cozy nights in over a glass of wine, delightful dinners, lively luncheons, wine tours through B.C., or a long road trip to Alaska. These were moments Karin treasured. As friends, they went through all life’s storms together. Her kind heart, compassion and warmth will be truly missed.
As her niece, I want to say thank you to the very special people in Karin’s life: to Penny who was always there for Karin and her beloved dog Nova. To Wendy for your encouragement for Karin to become an important member of the Rocky Air Show, for being a nurse in times of recovery for Karin and a friendship that stayed strong. Irene – thank you for always showing up for Karin in what ever capacity she needed.

And to Carolyn – thank you for being her family, for taking her as she was, good and bad. For always advocating for Karin in the scary situations and the opportunities that came her way; for being the voice of reason, giving sound advice, being harsh when needed and for never once letting her give up the fight. To the very end, you were her person.

In lieu of flowers, a donation made in Karin’s name can be made directly to ROAR Society (Rocky Organization for Animal Rescue Society).

A celebration of Karin’s life will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to www.affinity-funeralservice.ca.

Arrangements in care of Terri Shimenosky at: Affinity Funeral Service, 5001 – 45 Ave., Drayton Valley, AB T7A 1L1, 780-542-3338.