Karen Hager "Bo" Schouest

Karen "Bo" Hager Schouest, lifelong resident of the New Orleans area (and although lesser-known, the greatest cook in the metro area), entered into eternal rest in "The Big Kitchen in the Sky" on January 6th, 2026 at the age of 77.

A 1962 graduate of St. Christopher School, Karen later became a proud "Ramette" (dance team) at Redemptorist High School from where she graduated in 1966.

Karen is survived by her former husband, Carroll "C.W." Schouest, and their 4 children: Bart Schouest (Julie), Brett Schouest (Leigh), Bryan Schouest (Laura), and Heather Povsnar (Igor), along with 7 grandchildren, and one great grandchild. She is also survived by siblings: Dennis M. Hager (Maira), Judith Wood (Elm/"Buddy"), and Nancy Cristina (Chris), along with several beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by Herman L. Hager (father), Virginia [Hood] Hager (mother), Ronald Hager (brother), and Thomas Hager (brother). Karen also leaves behind throngs of beloved cousins and their respective children, as well. Lastly, Karen joins all of her departed fur babies she loved and missed so much.

When Karen wasn't dancing to rock music on her 45s in the '60s, (or generously loaning her prized Mustang to her brother, Dennis), Karen was always recalled as a doting sister to her five siblings as they grew up; her love for them was neverending.

Karen was a generous, caring soul with a very big heart who loved to entertain. For as long as she was able, she enjoyed any opportunity to showcase her cooking skills, making the preparation of chicken gumbo appear as simple as pouring a bowl of cereal. Nobody whipped up a roux with ease like Karen, and nobody ever left hungry.

A natural "child whisperer", Karen was nearly every child's dream. She devoted herself as a mother, rarely missing any games, cheerleading events, plays, dance competitions, graduations, or other special events. A woman of great sentiment, she also holds the unofficial record for "the most number of mementos ever collected" from loved ones.

Never having met a stranger, and with the gift of gab, Karen exploited her natural capacity to nurture in her job as an attendant for CARE, Inc. from 2001 to 2004, assisting the elderly, handicapped, and/or children as needed. Her clients each loved her giving nature.

In recent years, Karen spoke often of the friendships she made while living at Metairie Manor, providing anecdotal stories about shenanigans that went on amongst her fellow residents with whom she enjoyed clowning around. A sincere THANK YOU goes out to her friends in Building 4 who never ceased to activate her gigawatt smile.

Karen will be remembered for her affinity for the old west, hosting gatherings, fattening up her guests, her unwavering generosity, and last, but not least, her love for rescuing fur and feather-covered babies, who gave her life so much meaning. (Give Natchez and Link extra love from us.)

Finally, a special THANK YOU is also due to Dr. Jennifer Sterling and to the amazing nursing staff at JenCare, who tenaciously and lovingly ensured Karen never missed an appointment with impunity. She spoke often of the dedication of the staff, and always appreciated the banter with you.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 12:00pm to 2:00pm at the Garden of Memories Funeral Home & Cemetery, 4900 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA 70001. A Memorial Mass will begin at 2:00pm with services concluding at the graveside.

In lieu of flowers (if preferred), feel free to make a donation in her name to your local animal shelter, or to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be offered at www.gardenofmemoriesmetairie.com.