Carol (Kneen) Allen, 74, passed away at her daughter’s home on November 1st, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. She went peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones.
Carol is preceded in death by her parents, Chet and Eleanor Kneen, and by her beloved grandson, Casey.
She is survived by her husband of 46 years; Kelly Allen, her children; Kelly (Craig) Quinn and Corey (Shawyn) Allen, grandchildren; Seamus, Jesse, and Rachel, siblings; Sherrie Lammi and Mark Kneen, as well as her many loved nieces and nephews.
Carol was born in Virginia, MN, on August 4th, 1949. She attended school in Buyck, Orr, and Cook.
After graduating, Carol started taking interest in owning and operating small businesses. It began at rodeos, selling jewelry and Native American crafts. Later in life she moved to South Carolina, where she started her next venture with Flickering Lights Candles, which she sold at traveling craft shows before wholesaling. After Flickering Lights Candles, there came Candlelight Cottage, a cozy, welcoming shop where she sold her candles, gifts, and coffee.
Her latest, and perhaps best known business, is Laura’s Tea Room, which she started 16 years ago with her late mother, whom everyone knew best as Grama. The tea room held a truly special place in Carol’s heart. She treated everyone there like family, touched the lives of many of the people she met, and created countless wonderful memories.
Beyond the tea room, spending time with family was one of the most important things in Carol’s life. There was never a dull or unhappy moment when she was with her loved ones, cooking together and sharing a meal. Sunday breakfasts with her family were never a small affair– she always made sure everyone had plenty to eat.
As devoted as she was to her family and community, Carol was every bit as devoted to her faith. Her prayers brought her great comfort, and she could always be counted on to offer a prayer in difficult times. Her unwavering faith brought her peace before her passing, as she knew she would be going with God.
“Bless those who mourn, eternal God, with the comfort of your love that they may face each new day with hope and the certainty that nothing can destroy the good that has been given. May their memories become joyful, their days enriched with friendship, and their lives encircled by your love.” – Vienna Cobb Anderson
