Karen Rose Palmer

Karen Rose Palmer of 97 Friendship St., died on December 23, 2003 in Windham Hospital surrounded by her family after courageously battling a lengthy illness. Karen was a high school graduate and held an L.P.N. certificate as well as a certificate in Hotel/Motel Management. During her life Karen held many roles besides those of beloved wife, mother and grandmother. She was actively involved in the P.T.A. during the early years of her children's education and later served as a church camp counselor. While her children were in elementary school Karen worked at Benny's Home and Auto Store in Willimantic and later went on with her husband, Warren to provide security at the establishment of the East Brook Mall. The last position she held was that of a Loss Prevention Investigator for a major supermarket chain for which she worked for fourteen years. While in these security positions, Karen received several commendation for her work and kindness. Karen always took great pride in her home and enjoyed cooking and crafts. She and her husband shared a special love for the Christmas season and every year erected a large Christmas light display. Karen even made some of her own Christmas decorations. During the last few years of her illness, Karen enjoyed reading, building puzzles, and was a big fan of the character "Kramer" of the Seinfeld Show. With her warm heart, deep insights and sense of humor, Karen remained involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren till the very end. Sentimentally, the most significant event of her life was the celebration of her 50th Wedding Anniversary on March 23rd of this past year. Karen was predeceased by her parents, Angela and Gladys Chiarizia of Willimantic. Besides her husband, Warren, Sr., Karen is survived by her three children, Charlene L. Geary of Woodstock, CT, Warren, Jr. of Willimantic and Wendy Cates, also of Willimantic. She also leaves four grandchildren, Kimberly Rivera of Willimantic, Richard and Benjamin Palmer of Willimantic and Justin Palmer, serving in the Armed Forces. She will be greatly missed; she was one tough lady. At the request of the Palmer family, a private service was held on December 29th at the Potter Funeral Home in Willimantic.