Lois Jean Karanian

Lois J. Karanian, 78, of New Britain, died Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at the Hospital of Central CT in New Britain surrounded by her loving family. Born in Ross Township, PA, she was the daughter of the late Myrl and Lydia Pearce Stevens. She was a graduate of Hanover Township High School in Pennsylvania. Lois was formerly employed at Stanley Tools, a member of the former Trinity United Methodist Church in New Britain, and former officer of the Ladies Auxiliary of the New Britain Bar Association. Lois was a dedicated mother and homemaker who supported all of her daughters' various activities. She enjoyed playing the piano, baking and –thanks to her love of history--traveling and antique shopping. She derived much joy from her grandchildren-- who also played the piano and read. An inspiration to others, Lois demonstrated great fortitude in dealing with her illness. Humor, positive spirit and a true sense of blessing saw her through. In addition to her husband, Atty. Charles G. Karanian, she is survived by her three daughters, Charlene Karanian and Keith Patterson of New Britain, Sabra Karanian-Brunstetter and her husband Thomas of Weston, FL, and Kim Karanian-Franklin and her husband Randolph of Amston; two grandchildren, Kyle and Lyndsay Brunstetter of Weston, FL; her sisters and brothers-in-law, Norma and Joseph DesRoches of Warwick, RI., Audrey and Jack Gasper of Hebron, Richard Karanian of Euless, TX, Arthur Karanian of Wethersfield, and Dr. George Karanian and his wife Gail of Suffield; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Donald and Peggy Stevens of Unionville, Myrl "Ted" and Mary Stevens of Berlin, Gary Stevens of Plainville; Agnes Karanian of New Britain, Faye Karanian of Newington, and Virginia Stevens of Kensington and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by two brothers, James A. Stevens and Thomas L. Stevens. The family would like to thank both the staff of Plainville Health Care and her doctors who were dedicated to her care. Funeral services will be held on Monday at 11:00 AM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 S. Main St., New Britain. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery. Calling hours are Sunday from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Memorial donations in her memory may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, 659 Tower Ave., First Floor, Hartford, CT 06112.