By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Jan Karlin was a pioneer for Barton County in several ways. Karlin was first hired by the Barton County Clerk’s Office in 1980 to prepare payroll. Karlin was the very first person to operate a computer in the courthouse.
Former co-worker and current Barton County Commissioner Donna Zimmerman said Karlin was elected as treasurer in 1986 where she served more than 20 years until her retirement.
"There wasn't anything Jan couldn't do when she set her mind to it," said Zimmerman. "I'm betting there were very few people in her life that hadn't received a greeting card with a personal note at sometime of their life. Probably one of the things I admired the most about Jan was her desire to help anyone, regardless of their stature or position. She also never knew a stranger."
Karlin passed away April 4 at the age of 77. Members of Karlin’s family were in attendance at Tuesday’s Barton County Commission meeting where the board approved a proclamation honoring the life and career of Karlin, while also naming April 15, 2025 as Jan Karlin Day.
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"Karlin was a champion of women within the Barton County organization," said Zimmerman. "She promoted professional development while being mindful of the obligation of wives and mothers in homes. Karlin continued those efforts by networking through local chambers, the Kansas County Treasurers Association and the Kansas Association of Counties."
Zimmerman noted Karlin made a big impact on her life personally and the county as a whole with her innovative ways.