An Escape to the Chateau DIY star has ‘suddenly’ passed away, leaving her family ‘devastated’.
Karen appeared on the Channel 4 show alongside her IT consultant husband Clive and daughter Abbie back in 2018 as they renovated their Normandy chateau amid the couple’s dream of living in France.
And in a heartbreaking Instagram post, Clive and Abbie paid tribute to their late wife and mother as they announced her death.
They penned: ‘It is with broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our beautiful Mum has suddenly passed away. There are simply no words to describe the loss we feel.
‘Mum wasn’t just part of Château du Doux—she was its heart and soul. She poured so much love into this place, into our family, and into every couple and guest who walked through our doors. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome, cared for and at home, and her kindness and selfless personality touched so many lives.
‘Right now, we are just a family grieving the loss of a beautiful woman. We ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate the days ahead. There may be delays in replying to messages while we take the time to honour Mum and be together.
An Escape to the Chateau DIY star has ‘suddenly’ passed away, leaving her family ‘devastated’ [Karen pictured]
Karen appeared on the Channel 4 show alongside her IT consultant husband Clive and daughter Abbie back in 2018 as they renovated their Normandy chateau
‘To everyone who has loved, supported and shared kind words with us already, thank you. Your compassion is carrying us through the darkest days.’
The pair continued: ‘Mum loved Château du Doux, and everything it is today is because of her. We hope to honour her legacy by continuing what she built with the same love, warmth and care she gave so freely.
‘We would also like to reassure all of our couples and guests that all upcoming weddings and events will continue as planned. We are incredibly fortunate to have the most amazing team around us, whose love, support and dedication are helping us through this difficult time.
‘We know Mum would have wanted Château du Doux to remain full of love and celebration, and together we will ensure every event is as special as she would have wished.’
The post confirmed that a celebration of Karen’s life took place on Tuesday at their French home.
Many fans of the show and visitors to the chateau took to the comments to share messages of condolences.
Messages read: ‘I’m so, so sorry for your very great loss. I was only at the chateau once but that day was marked by what a wonderful family you were and what a beautiful energy your mum has.’
‘We are so sad and sorry to hear this news Abbie, we remember our first visit to the chateau and sharing a bottle of bubbly with you and your mum on the terrace talking all things weddings. she was so warm and welcoming. We are sending hugs to you all xxx’
‘So very sorry to hear this sad news. Thinking of you and sending you love.’
‘Awh, so sad to read this and sorry you lost your mum, she was too young to leave your world. We loved watching her with you all on Chateau DIY. On the moments you feel able, lift your heads up, you’ll see more light that way.’
In a heart-breaking Instagram post, Clive and Abbie paid tribute to their late wife and mother as they announced her death
Many fans of the show and visitors to the chateau took to the comments to share messages of condolences
Meanwhile, the show’s Instagram account also shared a message of condolence about Karen
Meanwhile, the show’s Instagram account also shared a message of condolence about Karen.
They penned: ‘Karen has been part of the Château DIY family since 2018, welcoming us into her home and sharing her life, stories and infectious warmth with us and with viewers around the world.
‘It was a privilege to know and work with her. Karen brought so much joy to the series and was hugely loved by our viewers. She will be remembered with great affection by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.
‘Today, our thoughts are with Clive, Abbie, Ross, Alex and all of Karen’s family and friends as they come together to celebrate her life.
‘With love from everyone at Château DIY, Spark Media and Channel 4.’
Karen and her family made their first appearance on the popular show eight years ago, with the programme seeing them make their much longed for dreams a reality after several years of holidaying in France.
Karen and Clive first stayed at the Chateau du Doux in 2008 and purchased it the following year when their daughter was ten years old.
Abbie, who was a university student at the time of filming, now lives there full time where she helps run the B&B and hosts weddings at the stunning venue.
