In Memory of Karen Van Hollen
1966 - 2005

Karen Van Hollen will always be remembered as a skater who was truly dedicated to her sport, not only as a synchronized skater, but also as a skating mom. In the past she has volunteered her time to make costumes for the carnival, and she even went out on the ice to help her oldest son Kerry learn to skate.

Karen has been a member of the Port Stanley Ice Breakers for 6 years, but her love for synchronized skating started 10 years ago when she joined the Mamma's and the Poppa's competitive team.

When Karen was diagnosed with breast cancer 5 years ago, her commitment to the team never diminished.  In fact she became the skater that everyone turned to for strength. Karen was never one to complain and she always had a joke or smile to offer to someone who was having a bad day. Even within the last year while her health was deteriorating she could be found at the arena every Sunday night cheering us on from the sidelines.

We were so fortunate that she was able to be with us when we reached our goal of skating at the National Championships in February. She was an example and inspiration to us all; we wouldn't have made it that far without her support. There will always be a place on the ice, and in our hearts for Karen. She will be truly missed.

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   There she sits
   on the side
   positive and supportive,
   she shows us pride.

   I can't believe
   the strength she holds
   our greatest cheerleader,
   smiling through the cold.

   A Port Stanley Ice Breaker
   through and through
   she's my inspiration,
   a team member who is true

   I hope one day
   I grow to be
   an example to women,
   as she is to me.

   Kathryn McFadden
   January 2005

The Port Stanley Ice Breakers have participated in
Canadian Cancer Society's Relay For Life
June 10, 2005
in Karen's Memory

Standing at back: Glen Van Hollen

Kneeling:   Vicki Goodlett,Goodlett

Top L to R:   Erin Verbruggen, Lydia Vinet, Kerry Van Hollen, Daniel Van Hollen, Corrina Van Hollen, Victoria Quick, Lisa McKenzie, Brenda Taylor

Bottom L to R:   Angela Payne, Sonja Lawrence, Kathryn McFadden, Melanie Banghart, Terri Benwell

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In Karen's memory, her sister has donated this award for the Ice Breaker who is most like Karen in spirit and dedication

The recipient is chosen by the team members

Below is a list of the recipients to date:

    2010/2011          Megan Hutton
    2009/2010          Kathy Phillips
    2008/2009          Jody Gleeson
    2007/2008          Donna Van Rompaey
    2006/2007          Donna Van Rompaey
    2005/2006          Angela Smith
    2004/2005          Karen Van Hollen 

Congratulations to all recipients!!!!!!!