In Loving Memory of Katie Shipman

This GoFundMe has been set up for Karen Louise Shipman’s end of life costs to include autopsy, toxicology, and cremation fees. Please help us bless her only child Cherie Grulich, by easing the financial burden of these funeral costs for her during this extremely emotional time.

~ The Impact of Loss ~
We are all shocked and devastated at the unexpected parting, which occurred on Friday, November 13th, 2020. Karen had gone into the hospital for a routine hysterectomy on Wednesday, November 11th, 2020; unfortunately, unforeseen complications that occurred during her stay there resulted in her untimely death, reasons of which remain unidentified by the hospital and coroner at this time.

~ Meeting Challenges With the Community (You) ~
Currently, Cherie and her extended family are delayed in end of life arrangements until an autopsy and toxicology diagnosis is completed and submitted. For anyone who has had a hand in the logistics of death, you may recall it is an arduous, lengthy task, especially in the face of medical necessity - all of which only delays the acceptance of loss.

This is where you come in: Every offering each of you makes here on GoFundMe not only supports medical necessity, but also to ensure that end of life arrangements are adequately handled so family members and friends may be consoled and gives them opportunity to focus on the grieving process.

~ The Woman Who Walked in Grace: A Day in the life of Katie ~
Karen was best known by her nickname Katie, short for “Katie Belle Jones”, a term of endearment by her father. Katie had an eye for interior design and loved collecting unique and eclectic household items (she didn’t believe in anything cookie-cutter or “too matchy-matchy”). Like many of us, she could not function without her morning coffee and always took her time getting her day started.

Katie led a life of passionate love as an aunt and mother; great nieces and nephews had affectionately given her the title “Aunt Cake”, which she wore with great pride.

Her superwoman duties during the day consisted of the role of assistant manager and leasing agent at Shoreview Apartments in Satellite Beach, FL, where she was well-loved and respected by her residents and coworkers alike.

Katie was a kind woman who loved anyone her daughter brought into her home. She never judged them for how they looked, what they watched, or who they loved. She was a figure of solace who always offered her home or a ride without question if anyone in the community was scared or alone.

One of Katie’s other largest virtues is she never pushed any agendas upon anyone other than the love she felt for them, and was an exceptional caregiver for all who had the blessing of meeting her in their lifetime.

~ How You Can Help ~
It is an unimaginable time of tragedy, for her daughter, as well as the rest of Katie’s family. Cherie was / is always close with her mother, even in their most difficult parent / child life phases, and always strove to do the right thing by her friends and people - a quality Katie passed on through her daughter.

Please consider helping to ease financial, mental, and emotional burdens on Cherie as she navigates through this devastating heartbreak. Donations will go directly to Cherie Grulich to handle end of life costs. Every dollar represents your compassion and human connection, and we thank you deeply for your time, support, and contribution.