TRAVERSE CITY — Karen Ann Annis, 60, a longtime resident of the Grand Traverse area, passed away in the company of her family Thursday evening, Nov. 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' needs 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 (Daniel) Kiessel, of Traverse City, and James Poulin, 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 a sister, Bonnie Shea. Friends may call at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Monday, Nov. 21, 2011, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., where Karen's family will receive friends. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday Nov. 22, 2011, at 1 p.m., with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Rev Edwin Thome will serve as the celebrant, along with Joseph Schleicher, a family member. Graveside services and burial will take place at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.It is suggested that those who wish to further honor the memory of Karen may do so by making a contribution to the Salvation Army or to the Father Fred Foundation.Kindly share your memories with the family on their online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.Arrangements were made with the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.