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Karen McCarthy Obituary
McCarthy died at a nursing home in northeast Kansas, said Robert Kalkofen, manager of McGilley Midtown Chapel in Kansas City. She had been suffering from Alzheimer's disease.
McCarthy had been living in a nursing home in suburban Johnson County, Kan., since spring 2009, when her family announced she had Alzheimer's. A family statement at the time also said she had bipolar disorder, which had gone undiagnosed for a decade.
McCarthy, who was among a dozen Democrats dubbed the "lucky 13" when they won amid the 1994 GOP landslide that switched control of Congress, announced in late 2003 that she would not seek a sixth term. Among the allegations were that she misused campaign funds for trips to the Grammy Awards.
U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, who holds her former seat, said in a statement that McCarthy was a "true public servant and a caring soul."
"Her fight with Alzheimer's was devastating and swift and this evening our nation mourns the loss of a true pioneer," Cleaver said. "She was brave in the face of a truly heartbreaking disease that led to the end of her career in Congress. Our community owes her so very much."
McCarthy was elected to the Missouri House in 1976 after working as a high school teacher. In the Legislature, she earned the respect of fellow lawmakers such as Jay Nixon, who is now the state's governor.
"Karen McCarthy was a pioneer for women in public service in Missouri, first on the state and then on the federal level," Nixon said in a statement.
In 1994, she beat Republican Ron Freeman in the race to succeed U.S. Rep. Alan Wheat, who stepped down to run for the Senate.
One of her accomplishments in Congress was helping gain approval for a two-state sales tax in the Kansas City area that helped pay for the renovation of the city's downtown Union Station.
In March 2003, she fell on an escalator in a House office building and cut her head. The next day, McCarthy said she was an alcoholic and left for a monthlong stay at an Arizona rehabilitation center.
After returning, she planned to run for re-election. She ended up announcing her resignation under pressure in December 2003.
Two candidates were challenging her in a primary campaign, and local leaders were urging former Kansas City Mayor Emanuel Cleaver to enter the race. Cleaver agreed after McCarthy bowed out.
The House ethics committee ultimately found that McCarthy misused campaign funds for one Grammys trip but decided not to act against her.
McCarthy was born in Haverhill, Mass., on March 18, 1947. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas and a master of business administration from the University of Missouri.
McCarthy was single and had no children. Funeral arrangements were pending.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
124 Entries
Bob Wolff
November 2, 2021
Mz.Karen held a Film Study class at SMS i was in and really impressed me, as she did my friends @ SMSouthHS almost 50yrs ago (Marty Locke/Steve Shouse) - she was 1 of a kind. The world is better for people like her, as all these comments well express - she left her footprint in many places, hopefully those she touched will fill those shoes well.
Tari Benne
November 30, 2010
A Teacher of all time! So gladd our paths crossed! You entered my life with passion and compassion, what a Beautiful Lady!Thank you for making a memory and giving faith in the human race! You are so missed! May God bless everyone you touched!Good Bye Ms Benson
Tari Holdeman-B
November 30, 2010
Karen Benson McCarthy made a difference in me. Miss Benson was my 10th grade English teacher at Shawnee Mission South. I came in the middle of the year and she gave an assignment that I could not grasp because of the pain I was going through at the time; so I wrote a poem about what I was feeling and she was gracious enough to grade me on that and gave me some heartfelt words and I have remembered her a lifetime for that. I know she is truely missed-Thank you Miss Benson God Bless
Craig A
November 24, 2010
Congresswoman McCarthy...we need more like you. You will be missed.
How you can show support
Mike Melvoin
November 4, 2010
To the family and friends of Karen:
All the finest qualities it is possible to possess in a single human being were Karen's. It is not only we who have suffered this incredible loss, but the world as well. And especially the music community which she championed with heart, knowledge and conviction, nationally and in her precious Kansas City. Thank you Karen, and God rest you.
Diane Ruggiero
October 31, 2010
When I first moved here in 2001 Karen McCarthy was my Congresswomen. She was always very open and responsive to our issues. Her death is a loss to all the people of Kansas City that she served and represented.
Barb Vandervoort
October 29, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Barb and Rich Casteel
October 22, 2010
Karen, you will never be forgotten by the veterans. You were always there - supporting us. We always looked forward to you attending our Memorial Day and Veterans Day Ceremonies at the Vietnam Memorial. Your smile and your spirit will always be there with us.
Carol Dobbs
October 18, 2010
From SME to KU and Pi Beta Phi and onwards with visits in Chicago and KC, Karen has been a friend, always glad to reconnect with me. I missed her this summer at our 45th reunion, and I will continue to miss her.
My sympathy to her family.
October 16, 2010
She was an inspiration to all .
October 16, 2010
May your family find peace and comfort.
K. B.
October 16, 2010
My condolences go out to Reo. Karen McCarthy's family.
October 15, 2010
To the McCarthy Family and Friends,
What a lovely picture of Mrs.McCarthy, in this difficult time I hope the family will find comfort from Psalms 34:18-"God is near to those broken at heart...".
You can feel that Death can leave a heartache that nothing can heal, just know that Love can leave a memory that no one can steal.
Charlie Miller
October 15, 2010
Karen McCarthy was the epitome of "class". She is now a shining star..
Lauren Krum
October 13, 2010
I didn't know Karen well, but grew up in Coleman Highlands/Roanoake and her home was always so beautiful and I remember looking up to the professional and smart woman who lived there. My mom would always remind us who lived there, and say "isn't that neat?" She smiled and waved at me for years, and I know she did a lot to help women and public schools, issues very close to my heart. My condolences to her friends and family.
October 13, 2010
I am grateful for the good works of Karen McCarthy. She made the world a better place. Marilyn Lyon
Janell Blaufuss
October 12, 2010
I met Karen when I was an intern at then Marion Merrell Dow in the early 1990s. She was a marvelous woman and a tremendous mentor who shared her wisdom and friendship with equal measures of generosity. I was sorrowed to hear of her death and the suffering that she endured. I will always remember her as a class act and am grateful to have met her.
Carol Greenspan
October 12, 2010
I was proud to wear the shirt saying "Karen McCarthy Benson, Westport's Lady for the House" and to go door to door for her in the 1970s. Karen was an amazing, honest, courageous, direct, supportive person who leaves a legacy of love and accomplishments for people behind. Karen, you will be missed. You left us too soon. My heartfelt condolences for her family - and for all of us who loved her. I cried when I heard she passed away.
MerlG
October 12, 2010
I am very sorry to hear of Karen's death.
May the God of all comfort be with you at this time of loss. 2Corinthians 1:3&4.
Olevia,Taylor
October 11, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
October 11, 2010
SO SORRY KAREN DEATH MIKE M MONTGOMERYALABAMA.
October 11, 2010
I AM SORRY TO READ ABOUT YOUR LOSS AT THIS TIME.I SEND YOU THESE WORDS AT REVELATION 21:4-5.
H Kay Soulis
October 11, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of Karen's passing, I remember her so well; I worked on her very first campaign, handing out flyers, walking door to door, getting out the vote! I learned a lot about how the world works from her and working on those campaigns. She was a thoughtful and kind lady, who worked hard to do the right thing. She will be missed by many. Peace to her family and Peace to her.
Kevin Casey
October 11, 2010
To a dear friend and neighbor from someone blessed to have known you. You have touched many lives and through them your legacy shall endure.
Marilyn Hughes
October 10, 2010
Karen, you were a good woman!
Steven Allen
October 10, 2010
I'm sorry for your loss. My dad died of Alzheimer's a year ago. I cared for him for two years up till the end. I understand how families suffer also and I wanted to extend a warm heart to Karen's family. God bless.
Steven F Allen Olathe Ks.
Kimberly Shearer
October 9, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. I had the privilege of working for Karen in her home in the 80's as her cleaning lady. She was a strong loving indepedent woman and gave me great confidence in myself as I was about to become a single mom. She showed great love to me and my son as I cared for her & her beautiful old home in KCMO. Thank you! Kim Frye Shearer
Nina Barnes
October 9, 2010
I worked with Karen at Marion Laboratories and she was such a wonderful person. I am so sorry to hear of her death. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Newton
October 8, 2010
To the Mccarthy family, sorry for your loss, may My GOD give you his LOVE, PEACE, and STRENGTH in this time of sorrow. May she R.I.P <3
LENORE CALVERT
October 8, 2010
MY CONDOLENCES GO OUT THE FAMILY OF THE LATE U.S. Rep. Karen McCarthy. I ADMIRED HER AS A PERSON, . I'M SURE SHE WILL BE MISSED BY ALL. WHO KNEW HER. MAY GOD BLESS HER FAMILY AND MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU
m harper
October 8, 2010
As a childhood friend and neighbor of the McCarthy family, we would like them to know that our thoughts and prayers are with them.
Mara Moran Harper
Kathleen Pretti
October 8, 2010
How sad. God Bless her family in this loss. Too young.
Maxie and Gary Canant
October 7, 2010
I was so priviledged to call Karen my friend. I asked her for help when my son was in Iraq, and we had breakfast together. We became friends, and she tried to move mountains for me, and I imagine many other vets and servicepeople. My husband, Gary, also a vet (VN) who played taps in KC, joins me in extending my most sincerest and heartfelt condolences to her family and friends. To have known Karen is to have loved her, and we did. May you find solace in the good memories you have.
Margaret Beard
October 7, 2010
I send my sympathy to the Mccarthy family, may you find strength to endure such a difficult time in your life. May you throw your burden on God and he shall substain you. I have you in my prayers.
Gar & Sheri Auten
October 7, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
October 7, 2010
Karen, I knew you in a simpler time in high school and college. I have thought of you offen as I followed your career. now find the rest and peace you so richly earned. ray ross, trussville, alabama
A picture of Karen held by her mother at a Lavallee family gathering in Saxonville,MA Sorry to hear of her passing. John Flynn Concord,MA
October 7, 2010
Bob Pessek
October 7, 2010
Farewell, my Irish Peach. For what you accomplished, remembered always; for who you were, loved forever.
October 7, 2010
The world has lost a wonderful woman.
Loved her, will miss her, and wish we could have had her with us for a much longer time.
Dorothy Andrews Lockport, Illinois
Shirley Griffin
October 7, 2010
I am sorry for your loss may the God of all comfort and tender mercies be with you in your time of grief.
Henryk Zaleski
October 7, 2010
Rest in peace.
Lavonia Williams
October 7, 2010
May God be with Ms. McCarthy's family.
Marsha Williams
October 7, 2010
Karen DID have children...all of the students and young people that she inspired. She was not my teacher at Shawnee Mission South, but she became my friend through my friends who were in her class. I worked on her campaigns, and she encouraged my interest in politics. It was she who suggested I move to Washington DC, long before she was elected and moved there herself. I consider her my most important mentor and am so sorry that she has left the world at such a young age. She was such an inspiration to me.
Patrick Dougherty
October 6, 2010
It seems to me that Karen embodied what could be called the essence of public service which would be to leave things better off than you found them and to strive to serve as best one can. I recall her efforts to address critical environmental issues when almost no one would pay much attention. I am honored to have served with her in the Missouri legislature. Karen, you made a difference and I miss you.
Chester & GInger
October 6, 2010
We are sorry for your loss of your Best Friend/Wife. She has earned her position, standing next to God, while completely understanding all His mysterious ways. May you find strength and courage to continue as she would want you to do. God Bless all of you!
frankie messer
October 6, 2010
to my closest neighbor and friend, rest in peace
karen davis
October 6, 2010
May her soul rest in peace.
Dixie L. Courtney
October 6, 2010
Your light will never go out, you inspired, challenged, and gave all of us "girls" the joy of being called your friend. Our memories will go on but there is a huge hole in our hearts now. May the sun always shine on your shoulders, Karen, we miss you.
Joyce Horton
October 6, 2010
The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow. With deepest sympathy.
Martin Locke
October 6, 2010
Karen was an inspirational English teacher of mine at Shawnee Mission South High School in 1973-74. I honor her dedicated, life long public service. Peace be with you and yours....
Joyce Murray
October 6, 2010
With intelligence, wit, charm, hard work & dedication, Karen served us well. Her honesty and productivity were the "earmarks" from which this state profited.
October 6, 2010
.Karen, you were always very thoughtful. I remember the kind note you sent me after I started a new job. God Bless you!
Chuck Moore, Kansas City, Missouri
Mary Jacobi
October 6, 2010
Karen was my friend and kindred soul. We occasionally showed up at events in the same suits. We had fun in Jefferson City, Kansas City, and Washington D.C. We shopped, ate, went to movies and the theatre together, and enjoyed life as true friends do. I will never forget you.
Sara Loar
October 6, 2010
Years ago, I had the honor of interning for Karen out in Washington DC. To this day, it was one of the best summers of my life! And it was all thanks to her. She not only taught me more about government than I EVER learned in any of my political science classes, but she gave me the opportunity do and see some of the most incredible things! She made sure to include me in every meeting, briefing, reception and event that she attended. She wanted us (her interns)to experience it all! She was a brilliant and fearless leader who I will continue to admire and look up to for many, many years to come. RIP Congresswoman, you certainly made your mark in this world!
Judith W Twitchell
October 6, 2010
You were an honest politician, one of the people. We need more representatives like you. <3
Lorrie McEachern
October 6, 2010
Karen, you always made me feel like a friend. Your gentle, kind and trail blazing spirit will be remembered always. G-d Bless You.
October 6, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Although I never met Karen but what struck me reading this notice is how much bravery and courage she showed. During times like this grief can become overwhelming .. but there are people out here that cares and so does our heavenly father. May the God of comfort sustain you during this time of grief. And when you need strength and encouragement mediate on these beautiful words in which God has promise: "he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither mourning, nor outcry, nor pain anymore, the former things have passed away."
L. Wiggins, Maryland
Steve Shouse
October 6, 2010
Karen, Ms. (Benson) was my teacher at Shawnee Mission South back in the 70's. She was one of my favorite teachers of all time. She was tough but fair and always had a great sense of humor. I am proud to have known her and will always remember her with a smile.
Chris Varner
October 6, 2010
i am truly sorry, for your loss..
Cynthia Stewart
October 6, 2010
To the McCarthy Family:As the days and weeks pass and as you return to life's routine may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.May the God who gives comfort be with your family.
R Golay
October 6, 2010
To the the family of Karen McCarthy - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that Karen will be missed by many.
Karen Stubbs
October 6, 2010
Karen and I shared many happy times. She was one of a kind and I will miss her.
October 6, 2010
Sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort and tender mercies continue to comfort your family and friends, and may you find comfort in the words found in the Scriptures: “�he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."" Please accept my sincere condolences during this time of your loss.
Sincerely
Lynette Gonzalez- New Jersey
Tim Altis
October 6, 2010
Farewell to a person of principle who very early in her political career was willing to go to Rep. Bolling’s office and stand with a group of young environmentalists opposing Meramec Dam; you will be missed!
October 6, 2010
I interned for the Congresswoman for 2 years while in college. She was a wonderfuly lady who will be missed.
John Williams
October 6, 2010
Rest well, Karen. I will be among the many who will miss your sunshine.
Lynn Torbert
October 6, 2010
I have fond memories of Ms. McCarthy at SMS during my tenure there. May she be at peace.
October 6, 2010
It was a great pleasure to teach alongside her at Sunset Hill.
John Altman
Cindie Unger
October 6, 2010
I met Karen in the early 70s as a fellow member of Consumer Action. I was thrilled when she ran for the US Senate and won! She will be missed.
Kathleen Brock
October 6, 2010
Dear dear Karen, you gave until you couldn't give any more. Jerry and I will miss your energy and advocacy.
M`Victoria&Andrew VZj
October 6, 2010
Our regards of 'KAREN'
respected Fond attitude of others..
sentiments Go out to The
McCarthy family she will be missed
but not forgotten,from many..
Larry F. Levenson
October 6, 2010
Years ago, I heard Karen being interviewed on a Kansas City radio station. Immediately, I was impressed; her answers were uncomplicated, honest, and made sense. I looked forward to listening to her again.
As a photographer, I had the good fortune to meet her and photograph her at numerous events. She always remembered me, and, when we chatted, I felt she was listening and not just being polite.
Karen was direct, sensible, warm, and a delight to work with. I will miss her.
Wendy Weber
October 6, 2010
Goodbye to a friend, a friend we were so proud of. We will miss your humor, intelligence and warmth.
Joni Roeseler
October 6, 2010
So sad to hear the news. Karen was my English teacher at Shawnee Mission South and a person I enjoyed talking to occassionally on flights back and forth to Washington. I always thought of her as a role model in many ways. She will be missed.
Janet Robertson
October 6, 2010
You are in my mind's eye as a strong role model -- I will always remember your special presence. Janet Robertson
Liz Graham
October 6, 2010
I will keep your friends and family in my thoughts and prayers. My awakening to the power of an individual vote and the responsibility to contribute to one's community began in high school when I got to know the person as well as the teacher who taught one of my classes and served as sponsor for the Anchorettes. Thank you.
Toni Messina
October 6, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of Karen's passing. As a staff member (in another offie) in the state Capitol years ago, I helped her draft a bill creating the Missouri Community Service Commission and program. That orgzniation and the service provided through the Commission continues, and so does Karen's legacy.
October 6, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. May she rest in peace.
Thel Kocher
October 6, 2010
Karen and I had plan time together when we were both young teachers at Shawnee Mission South. Through our many conversations I know Karen to have been a fierce advocate for what is best for kids, especially those who may not have had the advantages that others were fortunate to have had.
My she rest in peace and may warm memories comfort her family and friends.
Dawn Ellis
October 6, 2010
Your time has come to rest, you dear, gentle, loving soul. Life has been blessed with your presence & I will always remember you as a sweet spirit.
Patti Alford
October 6, 2010
God Bless you Karen. You were such a great sponsor and English teacher at Shawnee Mission South. We all loved you, the the group you were the sponsor to (the Anchorettes) will always love you and remember you. Patti Richardson Alford (class of '74)
Helen Nelson
October 6, 2010
To Rep. McCarthy's family and friends,
In your time of loss, may you find some measure of comfort in knowing that your loved one championed such important causes and fostered dignity and hope in the lives of so many people. May her legacy live on in those she inspired and helped.
Bob Quinn
October 6, 2010
It's not that I never thanked Karen McCarthy for all she did for me, personally, during our time together in Missouri politics; it's that I could never have possibly thanked her enough. I last visited with her in the summer of 2008, and I am so glad I had that chance for one last conversation. Today, like so many others she touched during her stellar public career, I mourn.
Tom Pierce MD
October 6, 2010
I am saddened by the death of Congresswoman Karen McCarthy -- Jorge said it best in terms of her enduring support of this nation's Veterans -- regardless of weather Karen showed up on time at the KC Vietnam Veterans Wall. Goodspeed my Friend!
Beth MacCurdy Wigner
October 6, 2010
My deepest sympathies to the family. She was part of my great Shawnee Mission South HS memories, and our fond sponsor of Anchorettes, Class of 74. Rest in Peace.
Carl Boyd
October 6, 2010
Karen McCarthy's legacy will always include being a positive force for social well being of the Kansas City area.
Scott Moore
October 6, 2010
I was so sorry to hear about this. Congresswoman McCarthy was a good person and will be missed by all of us.
Henry Rizzo
October 6, 2010
My first day in Jefferson CIty where a real challenge legislators like Karen made it comfortable ,and taught you how to survive and represent your people. Rest in peace and Thank You.
Repps Hudson
October 6, 2010
Karen was quite a legislator in Jefferson City -- idealistic but also practical and effective. She really wanted government there to work well, and she made every effort to that end.
I owe Karen a lifelong debt of gratitude, since she nominated me to become a Japan Society Fellow, as she had been. This meant I spent three months in Japan as a journalist in 1994, which was one of the best times of my life.
My regret is that I could not repay her enough.
Karen was a very good person.
Dave Anderson
October 6, 2010
I was a new resident and had a book signing on April 1st, 2000. There were many people there and one was Karen McCarthy. She wanted to know if I knew how a spitball was thrown. I showed her, she was a bit shocked. But I remember her as being a curious person. I admire that. My mother in law had Alzeimer's and died in 1995. i know what her care givers went through. Peace.
Fred Andrews
October 6, 2010
Karen was a friend and a dear heart. We met through her love of film. Her passion for the issues that impact our everyday lives never wavered. You will be missed, but your spirit will carry on. I am thankful to have known you.
Tom Smith
October 6, 2010
I pray that Karen McCarthy family and friends receive comfort from the God of all comfort. May she RIP until the resurrection when God promises the "former things will pass away" that includes both death and sorrow.
althelene streicher
October 6, 2010
GODS BLESSINGS WILL BE UPON YOU IN HIS NEW ORDER UNDER HIS KINGDOM GOVERNMENT MATTHEW 6;9,10 JOHN 5;28,29.
James O'Sullivan
October 6, 2010
I am so sorry to hear, that we have lost a very special person, to such a dreaded disease. I took care of my wife for 7 years, as she suffered from this disease. To the family, i say, may the good Lord comfort and keep you through your time of grief. My wife passed at 68 years old.
October 6, 2010
You were always a beautiful gentle soul. I appreciated the gifts you sent when I gave birth. You also spoke at my MBA graduation I will remember you with love and kindness. Gloria Ortiz Fisher
Tami Bramblett
October 6, 2010
Ms. McCarthy served Kansas City well and she will be missed. She is now free of the demons (Alzheimers/bipolar) that plagued her. The lady had hutzpah and moxie!!!!
She is a true Kansas Citian and Missourian. God Bless her family and friends at this time.
David J Bhaltazhar Esq
October 6, 2010
God Bless You.
xXx
charley aultman
October 6, 2010
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
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