Karen Anne Picknell

Karen Anne (Blanchette) Picknell passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, November 28th, 2025, in the presence of loved ones, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Karen was born at Fort Devens, MA to George and Pauline Blanchette. Karen grew up on the west side of Manchester along the Merrimack River.

Karen was the Life Partner to Rachel Shannon. They lived in Loudon, NH for the past 11 years where they shared many happy memories and experiences.

Karen received her Bachelor’s Degree through the College for America (a program through SNHU). Karen worked at Aspire Living and Learning (formerly known as The Institute of Professional Practice) for 16 years. She started there as a Direct Support Professional and had many roles throughout her tenure. Her final role was a Finance Associate.

Karen loved the outdoors, snowboarding, camping in her teardrop camper, reading and animals. Karen (Meme) especially loved spending time with her grandson. Meme was definitely the “fun one”.

Everyone who spent time with Karen saw that she had a zest for life. Those who knew her well also knew she had a stubborn streak a mile wide and was an extremely strong and competent person. Her daughters know that the strength she had was shown to them in so many ways and has built them into the strong and independent women they are today.

Karen is survived by her Life Partner Rachel Shannon, her girls Kelsey Picknell and Hillary Knight, son-in-law James Knight and grandson Oliver, her step-sons Kevin and Daniel Picknell, the father of her children James Picknell, her siblings Janet Hodges, Steven Blanchette, Jodi Barclay, Randy Blanchette and multiple nieces and nephews.

No formal services will be held at this time but the family will plan a Celebration of Life next spring.

Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to Payson Center for Cancer Care or the Breast Cancer Society.