LoAnne Karras
1946 - 2022
LoAnne Rae Karras, belove wife of Chuck Karras, passed away peacefully in Lethbridge, with family by her side, on Monday, August 29, 2022 at the age of 75 years.
She is survived by her step children Brian (Pam) Karras of Taber, George Karras of Taber, Charlyne (Dave) Russell of Lethbridge, Darren Karras of Lethbridge, Chris Karras of Lethbridge, sister in-law Lori Cummings of Winnipeg, nephew Sean (Lisa) Cummings of Winnipeg and nephew Travis (Stephanie) Cummings of Winnipeg. She is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren and by her great nieces and nephews, who she loved dearly.
She was predeceased by her parents Loletta (née O’Brien) and Raymond G. Cummings and by her brother Roger Cummings.
LoAnne was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba October 26, 1946. She began working early on in Winnipeg, later moving to Calgary and then on to Taber.
LoAnne met the love of her life in Calgary. Charles and LoAnne were married on June 26, 1976 and spent the next forty four years together until his passing. LoAnne left city life behind to immerse herself in her new community.
She was truly a people person, a quick wit and what a memory. Details she could recall - names, places, connections; all she shared with love until her passing.
LoAnne worked for the Town of Taber from April 4, 1977 to July 2, 2010. “She gave her amazing self to the Town of Taber throughout the thirty three plus years she made her mark on the municipality. She had an astonishing wealth of knowledge, a quick wit and a great memory for details but more importantly, people. She truly made a difference in people’s lives, not only in Taber, but internationally. One of the many standout accomplishments was that she participated in and coordinated a municipal partnership program with Phanat Nikhom, Thailand. Lo travelled to Thailand many times and made close friends whose bonds lasted to this day. Throughout her connection with Phanat Nikhom, Lo’s expertise in municipal and federal programs were instrumental in improving service delivery to citizens and consequently their quality of life. Still, to this day, many years after her retirement, those of us who worked with her still say her name around the office, knowing if there was any question, she would provide encouragement and have the answer. She is missed and she made a difference.”
LoAnne enjoyed travels throughout Canada, United States, Mexico, Australia, Cuba, Hong Kong and numerous trips to Thailand, traveling throughout the country where she forged many life long friendships.
She joined the Royal Canadian Legion in 1977, serving in numerous offices over forty five years. Her and Charles were fixtures there for Friday night happy hour. She also served as a member of the Order of Royal Purple.
She will be forever missed. She’s with her love again.
LoAnne will be privately remembered by her family.