Karen Piilgaard Reid, 78, died at home on the morning of December 4th, surrounded by her loved ones. She had been ill with peritoneal cancer for over four years, facing the challenges of the disease with courage, hope, humor, and realism. A longtime resident of Brookline, Karen was born and raised in a rural village in Denmark, the daughter of Ingvard and Tekla Piilgaard. She first came to the United States as an au pair at the age of 17. Later, in 1966, after completing her Danish education, she married Clifford Reid and returned to live permanently in the United States, becoming a U.S. citizen in 1980. In addition to her husband Cliff, she leaves her daughter Sonja of Washington, DC and her son Henrik of New York City. In Denmark she leaves her three brothers: Lars, Torben, and Finn Piilgaard, and her lifelong friend, Vera Andresen.

In her mid-thirties, Karen earned her bachelor's degree in nutrition at Simmons College. After becoming an RD, she realized that she preferred to focus instead on the abundance and pleasure of food, forming a catering business, Catering to a Tea, with Donna Viola. Together they provided countless delicious meals for nearly 20 years to private clients and to the women's management programs at their primary client, the Simmons Graduate School of Business. In her retirement, she served as a poll worker in the town of Brookline. She participated in the activities of the Danish Society of Massachusetts, and served as its treasurer for two years.

Karen was an avid reader, and loved that reading materials of all kinds are freely available to everyone at public libraries. An expert knitter, Karen created countless garments for family and friends over the years. When she visited Denmark, she always made sure there was extra room saved in her suitcase for the yarn she would buy there. Karen was also a walker, and loved the parks in and around Brookline, especially in the fall. She was a warm, cheerful neighbor who easily struck up conversations with others and always had time to chat and to offer help in the form of advice, a pep talk, a home-cooked meal, or a knitted baby hat. In her conversations she often strayed into topics which showed her deep commitment to fairness and justice in society. With Karen's passing, the world has lost a wonderful cook, knitter, and friend.

Karen's family is enormously grateful to the friends, doctors, and caregivers who supported her so lovingly and loyally during her illness. She remarked often how blessed she felt to have so many people calling, dropping by to visit, sending flowers and comforting cards, and bringing in welcome dinners.

Those seeking to make a donation in her memory may send it to the Brookline Public Library or the Brookline Food Pantry, places that provide nourishment for the mind and the body. A memorial service for Karen will be held on Saturday, January 14th at 4 pm at the United Parish in Brookline, 210 Harvard St., Coolidge Corner. Please check the Bell-O'Dea website for any changes in the meantime.