'Desperate Housewives' Star Kathryn Joosten Dies
June 2 2012, Published 7:15 a.m. ET
Desperate Housewives actress Kathryn Joosten has died after a long battle with lung cancer.
The 72-year-old Emmy-winning actress, who played meddlesome neighbor Karen McKlusky on the hit show, died June 1 in Westlake Village, Ca surrounded by her friends and family.
Joosten was a heavy smoker who had been battling the disease since her diagnosis in 2001.
She underwent successful surgery and chemotherapy in January 2010 which declared her cancer-free.
Ironically her death comes just weeks after her character died in the emotional series finale of the show.
Her co-star Brenda Strong took to Twitter to send her condolences.
"To the memory of an extraordinary woman, actress and friend. Rest in Peace Kathryn Joosten. Wisteria Lane won't be the same without you."
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