Karen Anderson

Karen Rae Anderson, 56, of Acme Township passed away on January 9 surrounded by her loving family and her loyal dogs, Kona and Kailua. She fought a long battle with kidney cancer.

Karen is survived by her beloved husband Phillip Anderson, loving mother, Barbara Kalinowski, and cherished children: Adam (Priscilla) Hartwell, the grandson that brought her so much joy, Landon Michael Hartwell, Aaron (Lisa) Anderson, Abby (Christopher) Jones, all whom she loved unconditionally. Her devoted brothers, Dan Kalinowski, Tom (Rosie) Kalinowski, Mark (Leeca) Kalinowski, Paul (Terri) Kalinowski, Ted (Ellen) Anderson, David Anderson. Also many kind and supportive nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Karen was preceded in death by her loving father, Raymond Joseph Kalinowski and mother and father-in-law, Kay and Stan Anderson.

Karen worked for many years at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Michigan and a short time at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Hawaii. She was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Traverse City, which became an extended family to her and demonstrated true Christian love and compassion during her long cancer battle. She was so thankful for the staff at the Cowell Family Cancer Center, especially Dr. Andrew Riddle, the hospice staff and Dr. Barazza for their kind and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, Karen asked that donations be made to the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Memorial Fund. Your best tribute to Karen would be to show kindness to one another, as God first loved us. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church on Saturday, February 3, at 11:00 am preceded by a visitation at 10:00 am. The family will host a luncheon following the memorial service in the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall.

Please share your favorite stories or memories of this precious Earth Angel with her family by visiting her on-line tribute page at www.lifestorytc.com.