We lost a daughter, a sister, an aunt, and a friend.
Robin was an incredible giver who brought joy into every life she touched. We know she is in a better place, but she will be truly missed.
We dedicate this site to an amazing lady. Here you can share your feelings with her family, share a story, a picture, or just let us know what she meant to you.
May God bless you Robin, and may God bless each of us who will mourn your absence.
Hit "comments" below to leave a message.
Robin,
ReplyDeleteI heard the news from Randy this morning and I am still in shock. I can't believe you are gone.
Although we haven't spoke much the last few years, the incredible memories of you have been replaying in my head all day.
You and your family were such a big part of my life growing up that I always thought I would have another chance to thank you for who you were and what you meant to me.
Your warm smile, kind words, and competitive spirt always challenged me to be a better person. I can never repay you for that.
I am so grateful that you have been part of my life and I am certain I will see you again.
All my love,
Lance Smith
“To my most favorite friend with love and friendship. I must start by telling you that you made my senior year the best! We have so many memories. The best of all was sweathearts night. I will never forget that. You party animal, I couldn’t resist bringing that up. The bricks, junior year, Traci’s birthday party, New Years Eve, the champagne…I almost forgot the only night I got sick..and all because it was beer. I must get serious now and tell you how much I love you and how special our friendship is to me. I feel so comfortable around you, like I can tell you anything. I have confidence that we will be friends forever. I think that is because we understand each other so much. Now comes the part where I wish you the best of luck in life. I have so much confidence in you. The thing I admire most about you is that you get what you want and you don’t take any crap! I love ya lots. Love and Friends Forever.
ReplyDeleteRobin Karas “ Yearbook 1984.
I can not improve on any of her words. We always felt the same way and I always admired her and I am so thankful I met her. To her family, when you feel a tingle..it is because she is near you. Her beautiful, kind, and warm spirit lives on through all she has touched. She is an angle.
I love ya lots. Love and Friends Forever,
Ari Schauder
I did not know Robin. It was never my privilege to meet her. BUT, I will say this:
ReplyDeleteABSOLUTELY, the TRUEST measurement of a LIFE is not what we attain; our position, our wealth, or our status or academic excellence. In fact, the only measurement of our lives is OUR effect on OTHERS. What others say about us and the impact on their lives is the true measurement of the fullness of life. Even if we have "critics", they will herald our positiveness and our impact.
Using this universal unit of measure, Robin Karas had a TREMENDOUS LIFE! A life that touched MANY, and a life whose effect will literally ripple through generations.
My sincerest condolences to ALL who have lost this wonderful person. BUT, I am looking forward to meeting her in person and feeling, in person, the warmth that radiates through ALL of the comments people have made about her and will continue to be made about her.
~ Ed
Robin was there for ever moment that mattered to me. My graduation. my marriage. the birth of my children, the loss of a friend, the loss of my father and ever other fun,sad and happy moment that meant anything to me. She was my friend and i will always miss her. Everyone who ever met her is at a loss right now. I will forever be glad she was a part of my life and forever be sad that she is not now.
ReplyDeleteKathy Nemec (Benson)
I always felt uncomfortable at events that all of Lance's "old" friends would get together, until I would have Robin come by. She always had her warm smile, she'd say hi, using our names and mentioning the last time she had seen us.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great lady Robin was, she will be such a incredible representative in Heaven. I know we all will miss her, this world is so hard to understand at times. My faith tells me that I will see Robin again. A good and faithful servant, I bet she will have the "job" of meeting all of us, a smile on her face and a welcome in her heart.
Thanks for the example Robin,
Tracey Smith
I've know Robin since the 4th grade. It's hard for me to my head around this. She was too young, and it does not seem right. I last saw her at our 20 year reunion. As usual, she was friendly and put me at ease immediately, though it was probably 10 years since I had seen her last. She was a genuinely kind person. I pray for my friend Randy, the Karas family and all who loved her. We will miss you Robin.
ReplyDeleteJim Lloyd
I never had the privilege of getting to know Robin, but throughout my years at MV, every time I saw her I always saw such a “light” in her. She always had a smile on her face and exuded such a positive, happy aura.
ReplyDeleteWell 20 something years later, Robin’s kindness was extended to me. I decided to find my best friend from highschool, Corrie Ann Egoscue. I knew Corrie had married Randy, so I searched but kept running into a wall. Finally I come across Robin’s name and decided on the off chance to send her an e-mail asking her for her help. I felt awkward doing it…but sent it anyway w/ my apologies. Well true to the Robin that I always saw at a distance at MV I received back a friendly, upbeat e-mail. It was only an e-mail, but at once she made me feel comfortable as if I knew her personally.
My heartbreaks for the Karas family and my deepest condolences. I hope you find comfort in knowing that you will have the most wonderful spirited Angel watching over each of you.
Patricia Kagaoan Rooney
As everyone knows, Robin was such a light! Truly. The last time I saw her was at our reunion and she was glowing...so happy, so positive. She absolutely could light up a room! Sweet Robin, I wish you peace and hope you are feeling all the love that is pouring out to you and your family right now. You will live on in us forever.
ReplyDeleteLove & Light,
Alisa
Our family is quite close to the Randy Karas Family. Our two 9 year-old sons are best friends, neighbors, classmates and, most importantly, baseball teammates. I only had the pleasure of knowing Robin through baseball, but in the Karas Family, that is the best venue for developing relationships that endure. Auntie Robin was totally devoted to her Mother, Brother, Sister-in-Law, Nephew and Niece. My son was a benefactor of her devotion since he and Tyler are often inseparable. For this, sweet Robin will always have the undying gratitude of the entire White Family.
ReplyDeleteRobin, Do you remember that day in 1991? The one where we met up with Jim Audette in the upper Anza Borrego park? It was a Sunday, and after we were done hiking/goofing around and Jim had to go, you and I decided to head down to Palm Canyon for a late afternoon hike deep into the canyon. We made our own trail way into the canyon, and we rested by the dry creek bed. I think I might have even fallen asleep. Then we were rousted from our reverie by a noise a little ways above us. There stood a family of Big Horn Sheep, a mother and two little ones - just staring at us. I remember I was scared, thinking they would attack, you just laughed and took a picture of them. I had that picture for the longest time, but now I cannot find it. I don't need the picture however, to be able to remember one of the better days of my life. I miss you.
ReplyDeleteLove, Eric J.
Robin I have known you since I was 11. You were the stud sister of Randy. No girl could keep up and you were stronger than most boys. Now 26 years later you have suddenly left us.
ReplyDeleteWe will miss you and your smile at family functions and we thank you for all your love, your easy smile, and devotion throughout.
Tracy Egoscue
Thank you, Robin, for blessing us all with your vibrant spirit. Thank you for the memories you've left for us to treasure. Thank you for touching our lives, if only for a brief moment in time. See you again soon, old friend.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Laura Dietrich
I remeber first meeting Robin through AYSO soccer in jr. high and marveling at her skill and competiveness. She was clearly the best player in the league. Although I only knew her through competition in high school track, she was always friendly, but yet a fierce and fast competitor. I clearly remeber her beautiful smile. I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
ReplyDeleteKaren Nilson Hohimer
Dear Friend, Robin, thank you for all the great memories. Until we met again.
ReplyDeleteMy condolences to the Karas Family. Offering a heartfelt prayer in sympathy today that God will bless and comfort you in his own loving way.
Con mucho Amor,
Martin Sandoval:)
Robin,
ReplyDeleteI assume you have a way to read our comments from heaven! I'm sorry that we decided to not hang out my last visit to San Diego. How could we know we would not get another chance? See, you should have taken off work and come skiing!!
You were such a great friend to me and Steph, and one of the most genuinely good people I've ever known. We will both miss you!
Love,
Vera
Hi Bean,
ReplyDeleteIt absolutely breaks my heart to be typing this message to you right now. Over the past 34 years you have been my friend and my rock. You truly made me a better person by being in my life. Thank you so much for your honesty, integrety, sense of humor, intelligence and most importantly your unconditional love. You are truly exceptional. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I have so many stories and fond memories of you I can fill a book...or two. For some reason one of the silliest keeps popping into my mind. This dates back to High School. From time to time we would skip a class or two (Sorry Barbra) and when we got back to school you would inevitably start singing that stupid Barry Manillow song "Looks Like we Made it". At the time, you drove me crazy but now it just gives me a warm fuzzy. Yes, Robin, it looks like you made it! Hold a spot for me will you? It may be a while but I'm sure we're going to continue this adventure one day.
Big Hugs and Kisses,
Jim
My deepest condolences to Randy, Michelle, Barbara, the entire Karas Family and anyone else who was lucky enough to have Robin in there life.
We will meet again my friend...
ReplyDeleteDearest Robin-
ReplyDeleteI was so sad to hear the news today. I kept staring at your locker today looking for answers but never got any. I can't believe you're really gone. I've enjoyed getting to know you the last couple of years. The Derby Dolls party bus was a blast!! I hope you are at peace.
I'll miss you dear friend.
Love, Sue Arab
What to say to express the deep sadness that was shared by all when news of your passing was announced at work today. It's hard to believe you won't be dragging into the locker room with the rest of us all getting ready for another day. My condolences to your family, whom you spoke of so often and so lovingly. You will be missed daily little Robbo. Donna, Scripps Mercy Surgery Pavilion
ReplyDeleteRobin,
ReplyDeleteMy funniest memory is the day Dr Diveley bought us lunch for our room for my birthday. You kept saying how you loved the vegetarian moussaka..Dr Kim and I took a bite and looked at each other and we both said this has meat in it!! We never let you live that down and always had a good laugh!! Robin I will truly miss you!! I will miss talking sports with you and having drinks on the "PL". I will cherish the shirts you got my daughter and remember you whenever she wears them!! LOVE YA!! Nikki Sary-Hurd
I have fond memories of your smiling face, laughter, and gift and athletic ability. Such a happy person. You will forever be missed. Enjoy the next life with Babi and Cindy, and we will see you again some day. We miss you all. Monarchs Class of '84
ReplyDeleteDear Robin,
ReplyDeleteMy memories of you in the operating room and how you were such a professional at what you do. I could always count on you helping me through the cases. Thanks for always making me smile with your jokes "you are squirting me!" and always giving me two weck cells at once. You are a very sweet and kind friend. I will truly miss you.
Love you, Dianne Kim
I did not know Robin, but I know her sister Michelle, a beautiful person, we are all sad to learn of her sister's death and will keep her in our prayers..May the Lord bless her & may her soul rest in peace.we will keep the family in prayer.
ReplyDeleteRobin, we had our own special bond at the surgery center because we started at the same time and went to the same employee orientation. I will miss your smiling face on the Tuesdays I am here. God Bless. Kathy Downs
ReplyDeleteI'm not wise enough to think of praises worthy of Robin Karas. So many memories. Such a big heart, such a beautiful smile.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Robin, for your love and laughter.
Only you could make a River Run road trip through Death Valley in July stuffed in the back seat of a car without air conditioning seem like the best time ever!
We miss you. We love you.
Wake for Robin on Friday
ReplyDeletePlease join us for a celebration of the good things Robin Brought to us. Lets remember her for her warmth and radiance. We can share stories of her good nature and friendship in an informal setting with long time friends. With her spirit, plant the seeds of new friendships we have yet to cultivate.
Please spread the word, I dont have everybody's contact info. Friday, 6PM at Planet Rooth Studios. BYOB, we will have snacks, bring something easy to share.
6/17/09
ReplyDeleteTo the family and friends of Robin I pray that the hope and the promise of life eternal will bring you comfort as you mourn her loss.
I did not know Robin well, although we worked in the same hospitals or on the same campus at least twice if not three times in the past.
She had an energy about her that was magnetic and her darling smile was always appreciated as we met in passing. We also share a very dear friend which endeared her to me even more.
I know in my heart that Robin is basking in the light and the love of our Lord. She is now and forever in a place where she knows only joy and peace. I look forward to meeting her again when I too am called home.
Sincerely,
Denise Bond
I knew Robin as a wonderful OR staff member who helped me on many cataract surgeries. I enjoyed her smile, kind manner, excellent care, and calming presents. Her life was one of true giving and helping others. Her passing will be greatly missed by all she touched.
ReplyDeleteChris Gualtieri, MD
We had heard so much about Robin before we eventually met her at Michele's wedding. And all of the lovely things we had heard were instantly confirmed. She was such a delight and a joy. We felt so relaxed with her and so close to her as if we had known her all our lives. We remember that many of our Irish friends and family expressed similar sentiments about Michele's delightful sister. Since then whenever we talk to Michele or Ber we ask after Robin. We really did come to think of her as part of our family. So words cannot express the deep sadness and sense of unbelief we felt when we heard the news of Robin's untimely passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara, Michele and Randy and all of the Karas family. May she rest in peace,
ReplyDeleteJoe and Tricia Murphy
Thank you for treating all of us and our patients with the utmost respect and kindness. Despite your personal pain and discomfort, you always managed to give the best possible effort to whatever you did for us. I already miss your sweet smile and gentle manner.
ReplyDeleteMahalo and aloha, my Friend. A'hui hou!
Dr. Lou
We were heartbroken to hear that Robin passed away so unexpectedly last week. We had met Robin only a few times through our dear friends Michele and Ber, she was a lovely girl with a very special aura about her. The grief the Karas family must be experiencing is beyond the realm of our imagination. Barbara, Michele, Randy and all the family, you are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time. Robin, sleep with the angels, love James and Olive
ReplyDeleteRobin,
ReplyDeleteIt must be about 10 years ago now (can that be right?) that I spent fourth of July weekend with you, Sheri & Jean camping in and hiking around Lone Pine. On the drive up we were joking about stature and I told you that I always thought of you when I heard the John Mayer song: Bigger Than My Body.
"Someday I'll fly
Someday I'll soar
Someday I'll be so damn much more
Cause I'm bigger than my body gives me credit for
Cause I'm bigger than my body now"
I'm not sure you really appreciated the comment but I've googled the song several times this week and listened to it and cried each time thinking about you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ud_DW73ybFA
You really were so much more than your body gave you credit for. You're soaring now and you will be missed.
Kate
I have the best memories of Robin...camping trips, hiking, reminiscing, making jokes about her hairless cat. Robin endured a lot but never complained and always remained cheerful and fun to be around. Her smiling face will remain forever in my mind. Love ya girlfriend and miss you lots!
ReplyDeletePaula
Dear Robin:
ReplyDeleteOh how you will be missed. It has been a pleasure working and talking to you. I was in complete disbleif when I heard the news. You are now at peace. I am sure you are smiling down on all of us, with those big blue eyes and little grin. I am still waiting for you to walk through the front office so I can clock you in on the time clock.... What's your number again? Until we meet agian....
Remembering you and celebrating your life.
To the Karas Family: Robin talked highly of all of you!
Ninon M.
Scripps Mercy Surgey Pavilion
For more than twenty years Robin's name has meant one thing to me, one thing you've read over and over in the comments here - a warm, kind, open, twinkling aura. Many have also described a bit of delightful mischief in her grin, making her even more fun. I've not met many more ready with a smile and a kind word and our thoughts and prayers are with Barb, Miche and Ber, Randy and family, all who knew and loved her.
ReplyDeleteRobin, you are a gem and we keep you with great affection.
~David
OUR ROBIN
ReplyDeleteSome people might look at Robin Karas's life and say it was a small life. In her 43 years on this earth, she never made a lot of money, she lived simply, and she didn’t command attention—unless you count her wild high school escapades with best pal Jim Audette; the time she begrudgingly dressed up as Juliet to Rona’s Romeo in the New York City Halloween parade; or the weekend she and Sheri got stranded overnight in the mountains above Los Vegas. Sure, you could call Robi’s life small, but that’s just because everything looks smaller when it’s compared to a heart as big as the world.
In the last several years, Robi had found a deep sense of fulfillment in her job as a surgical technologist at Scripps Mercy. She was put on this earth to help others, she felt, and took great pride in her professional accomplishments. And rightly so.
Robin was a devoted daughter, sister, auntie, and sister-in-law, who loved her family with a ferocity that belied her gentle nature. She was a dear friend to many—and the Karas family has been so deeply touched and comforted by the outpouring of love from all of those who were blessed to have known her and have been touched by her loss.
Robin loved every member of our family unconditionally, down to her neurotic cat Betty. Her beloved nephew and niece, Tyler and Makenna, brought her particular happiness and joy. If there was anything she ever failed at, it was trying to convince them that she was actually an adult, rather than their buddy and goofy playmate. With her quick and slightly offbeat sense of humor—so much a part of who she was—Robin was constantly making us laugh. She was always there for us, to support us, to love us, and it is that inextinguishable love that will continue to comfort, inspire, and humble us in the years ahead.
In addition to all the other wonderful things she was, Robin was a pillar of strength. As most of you know, she struggled with her health. Still, even during her toughest times, her first priority was to shield others from worry and concern. Because it would be her deepest heart’s desire, it is not the sick Robin we will remember, but rather the hiker, cycler, rock climber, and All Star softball player, who radiated health and natural athletic ability. If she could send us a message right now, it would surely go something like this:
“Tell everybody that I love them and not to worry. I’m okay. Let them know how proud I am of them, and tell them not to miss me, because—even though you can’t see it now—you have to trust that everything is as it should be. I’m standing on a trail in Anza Borrego Park, looking at a family of Big Horn sheep. I’m in nature. I am all around you. I am with God. I am free.”
In true Robin fashion, so as not to cause a fuss, she quietly closed her eyes on June 11, 2009, and set off on her ultimate adventure.
She was our sunshine. Learning to live without her will be the bravest thing we ever do.
The Karas Family
Robin and I dated for a while in college -- and I was proud to call her a friend. Her smile was amazing and she was so smart and fun and full of joy. I can't tell you how sad I am to learn -- just now -- that she's passed away. My heart goes out to you all. God bless...
DeleteWow.....not sure what to say....
DeleteEvery once in a while, I do searches to find old friends on FB. Today, I just happened to look for you Robin and see what you have been up to. Sadly today, I have leaned of this news so many years later. It really effected me to find out this news about someone so vibrant and good hearted to so many.
I met Robin back in the 80's, when I used to work at Toys R Us in La Mesa. She was always so funny, with her red and white smock that she wore. She used to walk down the many toy aisles, and in front of me, do a Jeté en avant, grand leap right in the middle of the aisle which was absolutely hilarious! Her petite stature, sparkling personality and short hairstyle was just so cute. Robin, you were always so kind and nice to me, always.
And that smile.....what a smile she had, to go with her deep blue eyes. And soon, we were going out on dates. I even took her once to the Thompson Twins (Sports Arena) concert in my mom's Delorean! :) I Then there was that giant Swatch watch I got you that you put on your wall in your bedroom.
Then after a while, Robin went to college up in Santa Barbara I believe Isla Vista. We wrote a couple letters to each other and then we had lost touch.
So to you Robin, thank you for being my friend. Always so nice and polite to me. And so funny and goofy. Truly, one of the nicest persons that I have ever known.
Lord Jesus, always bless the Karas family and give them strength during the times that they miss Robin. I would imagine that they miss her just about every day. My deepest condolences to Robin's family and friends. ~Chris Connolly <><
We met Robin Karas in May 2005 at Ber and Michele's wedding. We were part of the "heavy gang" who came from Ireland to share in the celebrations.The Karas family made us all very welcome - Robin particularly. We noticed how she was with Tyler and Makenna and so did our son Ben - he took to her instantly!
ReplyDeleteIt is that memory of her mucking about with the kids, big smile on her face, something nice to say to everyone and a kind of benevolent watching over us, that we have now. It's a lovely memory to have.....
We are desperately sorry for the Karas family's loss - we know they are heartbroken. But we feel sure, having read all the comments posted here, that they can only be enormously proud of how Robin has touched so many people in so many ways. We are proud to have known her even if it was only for a very short while.
Deepest sympathies to Barbara, Randy & Family and most especially to Michele.
Thinking of you all
Ger, Martin & Ben
What a great person Robin was, always cheerful, helpful and friendly. Working with her was a privilege. I always felt at ease when I saw that she was going to be working with me. I will miss her greatly.
ReplyDeleteAnn
Robin was like a little sis to my husband Mike and me. One of my fondest memories was celebrating Rob's birthday in Julian (her 40th).
ReplyDeleteEveryone settled in for the night, and our german shepherd Duchess curled up next to (really on top of) Robin on the air mattress.
I don't think Robin slept too well but the dog sure knew a good thing....a warm, caring, bright, funny person...I used to call her a little pixie. But she had the most muscular legs and used them to explore mother nature- she loved to hike.
I will always miss Robin, but I feel her presence and that helps. Our thoughts are with the Karas family.
Love you Robin,
Nancy and Mike
When I reminisce about high school and elementary school, Robin is always one of the first people I think of. Although we ran with different crowds by the time we reached high school, we ran as one on the track field. Even though I was a rude child, she always remained kind to me. I was and will always remain touched by her kindness.
ReplyDeleteRandy, I am so sorry.
My sincerest sympathy to the Karas family.
Robby Watkins