It is with great sadness that we have to share Karen H. Ayles (Gronau), 71, who left us on Tuesday, Sept. 9, surrounded by the love and presence of family and friends. Within the last year, she faced one of the hardest opponents of her life. One which she approached with determination, grit, and all the "Hootspa" she could spare.

Even throughout her illness, she was able to live her life, spend time with family and friends, and of course, work. Karen enjoyed every day of her 20+ years working as the receptionist for Cohen and Wolf. They treated her like family there, it was her "therapy", it made her happy. Her family is forever thankful for those coworkers.

Karen always enjoyed spending the day at the Casino, trying new restaurants, going to concerts, and she always spent that time with the love of her life of 50+ years, Richard. Her grandchildren always made her laugh, and she was always there to be sure they were well taken care of. And of course, her cat Rambo, who was always right by her side at home, will miss her.

Karen was a perfect example of "Live your life, do what makes you happy, and have the best time doing it". She was a great wife, sister, friend, grandmother and most importantly, Mother. Karen was predeceased by her father Leon Gronau and mother Irene McCarthy.

She is survived by her loving husband Richard, daughters Kristen Goncalves (Domingos) and Kendra Ayles. Her Grandchildren Ryan, Raegan, Andrew and Matthew. Her sister Patricia Prince (Kenneth) and brother Robert McCarthy.

Her family would like to thank all of the medical staff at St Vincent's medical center for taking exceptional care of Karen her entire journey.

The family requests in lieu of flowers donations may be made in Karen's memory to St. Vincents Medical Center

Family and friends are welcome to celebrate Karen's life on Tuesday, Sept. 16th from 9-10:45a at Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place Stratford, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 in St. Jude Church in Monroe. Interment will be private.