Karen Leanne Ladley

Karen Ladley, age 75, of Lemon Grove in San Diego County, California, passed away in her sleep on March 14, 2022.

Karen Ladley was born on October 25, 1946 in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, to Dean and Florence Hostler as the eldest of four children. After graduating from Cincinnati's Mother of Mercy High School in 1964, she studied nursing at the University of Cincinnati, receiving her Registered Nurse credentials in 1968. Karen then continued her education at University of California, receiving her Master of Nursing in 1975.

She dedicated over 40 years as a healthcare leader to hospitals such as Pasadena's Huntington Memorial, Oceanside's Tri-City Medical Center and Laguna Hills' Saddleback Medical Center. She championed the nurses and patients under her administration, contributing significantly to both her medical organizations and her community.

Karen met Stephen Ladley through mutual friends in 1979, and they married in 1981 in Maui, Hawaii. She gave birth to Lauren the following year, which began a mutual life-long love affair. She raised a tenacious and passionate daughter who carries her mother's wisdom, humor and heart with her always.

Her love of learning and dedication to others didn't end with her retirement in 2009 as Saddleback Medical's CNO VP of Patient Care Services. In between her world travels, she took enrichment courses and volunteered with many organizations, including with foster children as a CASA and as a docent for San Diego museums and Natural History Whale sailings. She gave of her time and skills to her beloved Holy Family Catholic Church; and was a pillar of love and support to her daughter through their many adventures. Karen lived a full, vibrant life, enriched by her cherished family and countless friends.

Karen was predeceased by her parents, Dean and Florence Hostler, and her brother, Kenneth Hostler. She is survived by her husband, Stephen Ladley and her daughter, Lauren; her sister-in-law Lisa Hostler and her brothers Kevin (Becky) Hostler and William (Sandy) Hostler; and her beloved nieces and nephews. She will be dearly missed.

A memorial service will be held at San Diego Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery on May 7th at 12:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, please: remind someone you love them; volunteer in your community; or consider a donation to your favorite charity in her memory.