Over the years of daily gatherings and vacations, I believe there were two endearing traits of Karen’s. The first , was her innate kindness. I do not believe that I had ever heard her say an unkind word to or about anyone. She had a sweet soul. Secondly, Karen had such a boundless, enduring love for her son Brian. He was her purpose in life and she always ensured Brian stayed active in sports and Specisl Olympics as well as traveling to so many new places and adventures.He was blessed to have such a wonderful mother, and we were blessed to have her in our lives. Rest in peace Aunt Karen. You are missed

Karen was a lovely, kind friend. She was very helpful to me when I started at Garrettford School. I will always remember her soft voice and pretty blonde hair. She was loved by many students for her kind and caring ways. My her memories be in everyone's heart forever. God Bless. Connie

Many fond memories of Karen and Joyce at Special Olympics events-laughing started at breakfast then continued all day with smiles of joy for all the athletes including her son Brian. RIP till we see you again.

It was such a shock to hear that my best friend had gone to be with the Lord. I’m still struggling with not being able to call Karen. I do thank the Lord that I was able to pray with Karen and share scripture verses to encourage her right before she went to be with God and with the light of her life, Brian.

We all need time to grieve and sift through our memories,Karen and I were able to laugh and cry together. She was a friend that I could tell my deepest feelings and secrets and know they would go no further. We were extended family to each other.

I still laugh when I remember a day when Karen came for dinner, my one year old daughter, Allison was in a high chair, she wore a bib with sleeves which didn’t stop her from having food all over and in her hair. During dinner Karen jumped up from the dinner table and rushed into the kitchen to get a glass of water, when she returned she said she remembered she needed to take her birth control pill. As she looked at my one year old, it obviously was a good reminder.

Karen didn’t like to cook and eating for her was more a necessity than pleasure, although she always had room for dessert. I still have to laugh when I remember the day she called and asked me how to make a salad.

We were extended family for each other. Karen was a quiet person who wouldn’t speak up for herself but she spoke up for Brian determined to get the best opportunities for her son. She spent hours volunteering for special needs children, making sure Brian and his friends took advantage of social, sports and training activities.

Karen was not only a great teacher, wonderful mother and a compassionate caring friend, the life she lived leaves a legacy that inspires us whose life she touched.

Mrs Short was my 4th grade teacher at Garrettford in 1979 and I will never forget how sweet she was. Not to mention her beautiful blonde hair and perfect skin! I loved when she shared stories of Brian’s adventures with us. I saw her again at a wedding about 25 years later and she looked exactly the same! Still as sweet as ever. Thank you for the wonderful memories. My condolences to her family.