Karen L. Thompson, 73, died July 22, 2023, at Mennonite Friendship Communities, South Hutchinson, Kan. She was born Feb. 28, 1950, in Great Bend, Kan., to Russell Lee and Arline Lucille (Byers) Thompson.

Karen was a 1968 graduate of Great Bend High School. She attended Salt City Business College and Hutchinson Community College, formerly Hutchinson Community Junior College. She was employed as a Senior Data Entry Operator at Eaton Hydraulics and Far-Mar-Co/Farmland Industries, both located in Hutchinson, Kan. In 1990, Karen began a career in the insurance industry, working at various insurance agencies located in the Hutchinson area, and retired with many years of service.

She was a member of the Mid-Kansas Insurance Association, serving as the president from 2003 to 2004. Karen was also a member of the National Council of Insurance Women. She attended the First Christian Church in Great Bend, Kan.  

Family was most important to Karen. She enjoyed needlework, crochet, and knitting and shared her artwork with family and friends. Karen loved animals, especially cats. She enjoyed spending time with her sister at her home and her many animals. Karen had a cherished group of friends with whom she participated in numerous activities.

She is survived by her sister, Janis (Robert) Battey of Hutchinson, Kan.; brother, Kirk (Stephanie) Thompson of Topeka, Kan.; nieces, Kim (Dan) Oborny and Mandy (Paul) Schroeppel; two great-nieces; three great-nephews; and one great-great-nephew. Karen was preceded in death by her parents.

The family will receive friends from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 30, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary. Graveside service will be 11 a.m. Monday, July 31, 2023, at the Great Bend City Cemetery, 4500 Broadway, Great Bend, Kan. Friends may sign the memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, July 28, 2023, and Saturday, July 29, 2023, and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 30, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary.  Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Elliott Mortuary and Crematory

1219 N. Main

Hutchinson, KS. 67501

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, July 27, 2023