Emmy-winning actress Kathryn Joosten, best known for playing Karen McCluskey on “Desperate Housewives,” has sadly passed away after losing a long battle against lung cancer at her home in Westlake Village, California on Saturday (June 2).

‘Desperate Housewives’ Kathryn Joosten Has Lung Cancer (Photos)

The 72 year-old was surrounded by family and friends at the time of her death. The actress’ rep, Nadine Jolson, released the following statement on behalf of the family:

“The family of Kathryn Joosten, two-time Emmy winner, longtime Governor of The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, lung cancer advocate, and so much more, regrets to announce that Kathryn succumbed to her 11-year battle with lung cancer today, June 2, 2012, surrounded by love and humor til the end. Thanks to everyone for their love and support. We are laughing through our tears. We love you, Kathy, thanks for everything.”

Kathryn won two Emmys (2005 and 2008) for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy for her role as the nosey neighbor on “Desperate Housewives.” She was also known for playing the President’s secretary Dolores Landingham in “The West Wing.”

Desperate Housewives creator, Marc Cherry, remembered the actress in a statement:

“The character of Mrs. McCluskey was created for a single episode. We then cast Kathryn Joosten and she infused the part with so much feisty wit and curmudgeonly bravado, we knew we had to move her onto Wisteria Lane for the run of the series. I will forever miss her, as a co-worker and as a friend.”

R.I.P. Kathryn Joosten.

[image: FayesVision/wenn.com]