In Loving Memory of Teacher Karine

Karine was born and raised in Armenia.  In 2007, Karine and her husband, Ashot, with kids, Hrant and Anna, moved from their home country of Armenia to Boston, Massachusetts.  They spent a short time in Boston before moving here to the SF Bay Area.  Since 2009, San Mateo Gymnastics has been fortunate to have Karine as a member of our teaching staff.  She introduced the art of gymnastics to our pre-schoolers in the Munchkins program and progressed to teach Girls Level 1 and Level 2.  She gave her students the attention needed and reassurance when they were unsure or afraid.  Karine’s teaching style offered a gentle demeanor and patience with her students as she encouraged and inspired them to persevere.  She was a true gem and adored by all!Unfortunately, Karine spent the last 3 years battling cancer, but most of the time you would never know it because her beautiful smile never faded no matter how badly she was feeling.  Sadly, last week her cancer overcame and our community lost a beautiful and loving mother, daughter and friend.  Karine was a kind, loving and caring woman who put others needs before her own.  Her strength was so great that even through the toughest times, she kept a smile on her face and continued to do what she loved, which was spending time with her own children and teaching gymnastics to the children here at SMG.Karine's last wish was to have her final resting place be in her home country of Armenia and her SMG family is making sure that takes place.  If you would like to help cover the expense of transportation, funeral and memorial costs, please make a donation at http://www.youcaring.com/memorial-fundraiser/in-loving-memory-of-beautiful-karine/262368All of the support from our SMG community has been immense.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!