Karen Ann Annis, 60, a longtime resident of the Grand Traverse area, passed away in the company of her family Thur evening, November 17, 2011, at Munson Medical Center.
For 10 years Karen was employed by Traverse City Public Schools working as an aide with special needs children. She truly loved her association with the children and her co-workers.
She loved and enjoyed her family foremost, followed by gardening and yard work, knitting fun scarfs for family, friends and local charities.
Karen always had a twinkle in her eye for Elvis Presley and country music. Her frequent trips to the Grand Ole Opry were always memorable.
Karen faced her recent illness as she lived her own life, with strength and dignity. She was always putting others’ before her own.
She is survived by her children, Brian Annis and his friend Violet of Traverse City, and Mark (Joedy) Annis, of Interlochen; five grandchildren, Allena, Briana, Kaylee, Kaleb, and Raymond; siblings, Gale (Dale) Kiessel, of Traverse City; her niece Lisa; her nephew Jeff; her stepbrother and sisters, Sheryl (Ed) Roesch of Florida, Terry Crain of Texas, Douglas Crain of Traverse city, and Bradley (Lisa) Crain of North Carolina; along with many nieces and nephews.
Karen was preceded in death by her mother, Clara L. (Plamondon) Crain; her stepfather, Donald L. Crain; and sister, Bonnie Shea.