Karen Marie (Phinney) Sundin fought her battle with cancer courageously, but passed peacefully, surrounded by her family in her home in Bellingham, MA on October 14, 2025 at the age of 63. Beloved partner to Richard Sabounjian. Devoted mother to Kayla Bernardo and her husband Nicholas of Bellingham, Kelsey Sundin and her partner Michael Phillips of Bellingham, and James “Joe” Sundin and his partner Allison Roberts of Milford. Dear sister to Ron Phinney and his wife Elizabeth of West Roxbury, Nancy Stapin and her husband Gary of Franklin, Ann Mazzarella and her husband Robert of Franklin, the late Ralph D. Phinney, Jr., Janet Phinney, and John Phinney. Loving Mimi to Logan and Colton Jones and Catherine Bernardo. Amazing and loving Auntie Honey to many nieces and nephews.
Karen was born on May 3, 1962, to Ralph and Catherine Phinney. She was one of 7 children living in the Grove of West Roxbury. Karen worked as a waitress and administrative assistant. She was also a full time Mom, watching over her 3 precious cherubs. Karen loved to spend quality time with her family, loving and nurturing her children and grand babies. She loved traveling, attending a good party, dancing and shopping for sure! Just like a good Irish girl she loved her eggs benedict with corned beef and hash, extra crispy. Brunch was always a favorite pastime with her and her ladies. Music was a passion for her as well, often listening to Michael Buble’, Lady A and shutting down a party with Sister Sledge. Karen never left the house without her “face and hair” being on impeccable display along with her stylish attire, jewelry and nails to match. Always dressed to the 9’s for any situation. She was the epitome of grace and elegance. Some of Karen’s favorite pastimes were going to the beach, being by the water, on a chaise lounge, sipping on a cocktail, laughing and singing with her family and friends – all the while looking to maintain her perfect tan.
Visiting Hours in the William J. Gormley Funeral Home, 2055 Centre Street, West Roxbury, on Saturday, October 18th from 3:00pm to 6:30pm. Followed by a Funeral Service at 6:30pm in the Funeral Home. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Interment Private. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Karen may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, PO Box 849168 Boston, MA 02284-9168 or www.dana-farber.org