KAREN ROPERThe family of a mum-of-four who was killed in a crash at South Elkington has paid tribute to a "devoted and selfless" teacher.Karen Roper, 48, of Legsby Road, Market Rasen, died in the accident on July 29, 2009.Mrs Roper taught children with special needs at Market Rasen Church of England Primary School and was mum to Benjamin, Emma, Harriet, and Joseph.She was described as a selfless mum who was passionate about helping children.Daughter Emma said: "I don't think the reality has sunk in yet. I have my life ahead of me, but I've lost the most important person to guide me through it."We are all so close and doing our best to remain positive but with several family birthdays coming up and Harriet's first baby due just two days before mum's birthday, it is not easy."Mum will never have the joy of holding her first grandchild and our wish now is that Alfie is born on August 13, mum's birthday."Mrs Roper's husband Philip said: "Karen was a remarkable woman who was the centre of our lives and everyone's best friend."She literally did everything and was completely devoted to her children and her family."Any time for herself was spent in her garden, which she loved."Karen was a bright and passionate woman who was completely selfless, everything she did for others, never for herself."To say we will miss her does not come close to what her loss means to us."Her sister Elaine, of Laceby, added: "Karen adored children and was just so natural with them. My son is autistic and Karen brought him out of himself."She communicated beautifully with him and, through some difficult times, was wonderful with him. She was truly gifted in that respect."
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