Karen Schank, a devoted daughter, sister, cousin, and friend, passed away on the morning of January 19, 2025, in Great Bend, Kansas, at the age of 83. Born on October 5, 1941, in Timken, Rush County, Kansas, Karen lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and an enduring connection to family, community, and heritage.
Karen was the beloved daughter of Marie (Nepereny) and John W. Schank, both of Czechoslovakian descent. She cherished her family’s history and the values of hard work they instilled in her. She was close to her older sister, Patricia, with whom she shared a lifelong bond until Patricia’s passing. Her love and care for her family were evident in the ways she preserved family heirlooms, nurtured relationships, and safeguarded the legacy of the Nepereny family farm in Kansas, which she took pride in sharing its history and memories.
A graduate of Great Bend High School’s Class of 1959, Karen was recognized as a high achiever, excelling in academics and participating in extracurricular activities. Her intelligence, determination, and attention to detail became hallmarks of her personality and professional life.
Karen's career took her to Thailand for several years, where she embraced a new culture and developed an appreciation for personal growth and learning. She returned to Great Bend to care for her mother in her later years, demonstrating her compassion and commitment to family. After her mother’s passing, Karen continued to prioritize the family’s home and farm, ensuring their upkeep and preservation.
Karen had a passion for art, reading, cooking, and keeping family connections alive. She was thoughtful and kind, sending and saving cards from loved ones and maintaining correspondence with relatives across the globe, including her uncle’s family in Germany. Despite life’s challenges, Karen’s independence and strong will remained evident. She held fast to her principles, took pride in doing a job well, and valued fairness, honesty, and responsibility. Karen’s personality was a beautiful blend of warmth and strength.
Karen is preceded in death by her parents, Marie and John W. Schank; her sister, Patricia Hluzek; and her infant brother, William. She is survived by loving family members including many cousins, friends and the individuals whose lives she touched with her kindness and integrity.
Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Chaplain Jeffrey Owen presiding. Visitation will take place prior to service starting at 10:00 a.m. Inurnment will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 31, 2025, at Golden Belt Memorial Park. Memorials have been designated to Kingdom Hall, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.
Karen Schank will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, perseverance, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.