Karen Perry's Obituary
Karen Perry, age 51, of Collinsville, IL, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2014 at St. Louis University Hospital, St. Louis, MO with her family by her side. Karen was born on June 26, 1963 in Chicago, IL, a daughter to the late Robert and Marian (Kien) Frank.
On November 2, 1985, Karen Frank married Steve Perry, the love of her life in Palos Heights, IL. Karen was a faithful member of Our Lord’s Lutheran Church in Maryville, IL, where she sang in the church choir. Karen was an accomplished musician and enjoyed singing, playing the oboe, the church organ, and her baby grand piano, she was a dedicated math teacher, music teacher, and gymnastics coach for many years. Her current position was school superintendent in Morrisonville, IL. Karen had a special thirst for knowledge; she believed in furthering her education and was currently working on her PhD.
Community Theater was her passion; Karen was a director, music director, and loved being on the stage. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, baking, online shopping and educational traveling with Steve and her four children. Karen loved life, she loved to laugh, but most of all she was proud of her children and loved her family. Karen will be remembered for her strength, her love, and special times shared with family and friends. She saw the beauty in others, the potential in everyone, and inspired and believed in them, and encouraged them to do their best. She was loved by all. “We love you mom, think of bunnies!”
She is survived by her loving husband of twenty nine years, Steve Perry; four amazing children; Matthew (Holly) Perry, Sarah Perry, Rachel Perry and Rebekah Perry; devoted Lil’ Sis Beth (Steve) Barlow; cherished Goddaughter Morgan Barlow; dear mother-in-law, Judy Perry Friedmansky; her extended family and many wonderful friends.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, 2014 at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road, Glen Carbon, IL.
In celebration of her life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2014 at Irwin Chapel Glen Carbon, IL with Pastor John Lottes officiating.
A second visitation and funeral service will be held at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Avenue, Decatur, IL. The visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until noon on Thursday, December 11, 2014, the funeral service will start at noon.
Karen will be laid to rest at Graceland Cemetery in Decatur, IL.
Memorial donations may be given to The Karen D. Perry Arts and Entertainment Scholarship Fund to benefit the arts in our community and will be accepted at the funeral
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