Keohane Funeral Home

René M (Buckley) Steen

April 12, 1959 – May 17, 2023

René Marion Steen (Buckley), 64, of East Weymouth, MA, passed away on May 17, 2023, her late father’s birthday. She fought a short-lived, dignified, and gracious battle against cancer, but ultimately succumbed to the devastating effects of aggressive chemotherapy.

René was predeceased by her beloved father, Leo Buckley, whom she regarded as her hero, living life and raising her children guided by his ever-present wisdom and principles. She was also predeceased by her mother Gudrun Buckley, ex-husband David Steen, granddog Cola, and childhood dog Sootie.

René’s purpose on this earth shone brightly as a devoted mother, and is survived by her cherished and heartbroken children: Adam Steen of Weymouth, MA; Nicole Steen of Riverside, RI; and Samantha Vaughan (Nicholas) of Whitman, MA. Her children were the center of her world and her visceral love for them manifested itself differently for each, in the exact ways they needed to be loved. She took immense joy in witnessing their remarkable achievements and lived vicariously through their fearless adventures, which were only possible because of her unwavering support and encouragement. René’s motherly warmth knew no bounds, extending her nurturing care to her children’s many friends as if they were her own.

René is also survived by her two loving sisters, Gudrun Buckley of Yuma, AZ, and Kathleen Carson (James) of Abington, MA. Even across thousands of miles, Gudrun remained a steadfast pillar of support for her, and they shared a gift for boundless generosity, most evident in their thoughtful and over-the-top gift giving. Kathleen and René were thick as thieves, sharing an unbreakable bond that went beyond the realms of sisterhood and friendship; it was a rare sight to even see them apart. Despite being the youngest sister, René stood as the epitome of wisdom for Kathleen, modeling and guiding her through the ropes of motherhood. Kathleen’s children, Andrew Carson of Tempe, AZ, and niece Alanna René Carson of Abington, MA, for whom René was a second mother, deeply mourn her passing.

Dogs held a special place in René’s heart, and her furry grandchildren, Charlotte and Dori, were the source of pure joy and happiness in her life. René constantly showered “the girls” with gifts and treats, and announcing a trip to “gramma’s house” always led to an eruption of joyful howls and wagging tails.

René will leave a palpable absence at her workplace of over 28 years, Palco Plastics in Whitman, MA, where she held the esteemed role of “Queen,” and was treated like family by owners Paul Olsen of Brockton, MA and Josh Yelapi of Wareham, MA. René became an invaluable confidante to Josh, as they engaged in meaningful conversations about life. Countless other friends and colleagues, shattered by the unexpected loss, will forever remember her with love and admiration.

René was renowned for her extraordinary baking skills, creating mouth-watering and visually stunning cakes that left everyone in awe. Her famous fudge and German Stollen were highly coveted treats during Christmas, and receiving one of her tins filled with homemade confections was a sure sign of how cherished you were in her life. René’s creativity extended far beyond the kitchen. She showcased her artistic abilities by handcrafting clothing and extravagant Halloween costumes for her children during their early years. As a florist in her early career, she discovered immense joy in working with flowers, reflected in her love for designing beautiful holiday and seasonal wreaths. René’s gift giving was unmatched. Her knack for finding the most unique, thoughtful, heartfelt, and personalized gifts remains one of her most memorable qualities.

As René was known for being private, humble, and spotlight-averse, there will be no public services. However, a celebration of her remarkable life will take place at a later date to honor the incredible legacy she leaves behind, characterized by love, kindness, and resilience. If inclined, donations in her name to your local animal shelter would be deeply appreciated.

René will forever be treasured for her unique essence and profound impact on those fortunate enough to have known her. As we reflect upon her life, may we carry forward her teachings of cultivating independent thoughts, embracing the golden rule of treating others the way you want to be treated, and fearlessly charting your own path, regardless of others’ opinions. In this way, we honor her legacy and the beautiful soul that was René Marion Steen.