Karen Franco Juknis

NORTH CAROLINA – Karen Franco Juknis, formerly of Barre, passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2020 surrounded by family following a sudden stroke.

Born on April 29, 1951 in Barre, she was the daughter of John Lewis and Helen (Morrie) Franco, Sr.

Karen attended the Barre Town School system including Trow Hill School and Lower Websterville School, where she met her dearest friends Debbie Gable and Linda Marineau. She later graduated from Spaulding High School in June of 1969, and from the University of Vermont in 1974.  She taught many years at the Barre Town Middle School until 2011, at which time she and Jim opted for retirement in warmer climes in western North Carolina outside of Asheville.

Survivors include her husband of 44 years James Juknis; daughters Jennifer Juknis Kretz and her husband, Evan of Nassau, New York; and Kristin Juknis of Barre; brother John L Franco, Jr. and his wife, Kathi of Burlington; and Aunt Carole Cacioppi of South Burlington.

She was predeceased by her parents.

Following a brief remembrance for her friends in North Carolina, Karen will come home to her beloved Vermont. A gathering of friends and family will be held on Tuesday, February 4, 2020 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Hooker and Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Barre.

In lieu of flowers, per Karen’s wishes memorial contributions may be made to a women’s support group of your choice.