Karen Anne Fugate

Karen Fugate, a beloved member of the Ravenwood, Missouri community, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on August 4th, 1942, in Maryville, Missouri, Karen was the daughter of the late Lloyd Curtis Messner and Helen Belle Messner.

Karen was a dedicated retail worker at Walmart in Maryville, MO, where she formed lasting friendships and was known for her warm smile and helpful nature. She was a graduate of Northeast Nodaway in Ravenwood, Missouri, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with love, laughter, and community service.

On May 5th, 1962, Karen married the love of her life, Jerry Fugate, at the Methodist Church in Parnell, MO. Together, they built a beautiful family and shared a passion for square dancing. Karen enjoyed crafting, computer games, and especially her outings with the Walmart ladies. Karen's family was the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Karen is survived by her loving children, son Kevin Fugate of Ravenwood, MO, and daughter Kim Knopp of McPherson, KS. She also leaves behind her dear sister, Kathryn (Buster) Newberry of Parnell, MO. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Chelsey (Trevor) McCrary, Dylan (Samantha Pringle: Kingston and Lila) Downen, Haldon (Jamie) Fugate, and Megan Fugate, nieces: Glenda (Glen) Kohout and Gayla (Mike) Striplin, as well as her great-grandchild, Easton Fugate.

Karen was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Jerry Fugate, and her parents, Lloyd Curtis Messner and Helen Belle Messner.

A memorial service to celebrate Karen's life will be held at Bram Funeral Home in Maryville, MO, on Thursday, January 22nd, 2026, at 1:00 pm. Arrangements are being handled by Bram Funeral Home. There will be a private family burial at Nodaway Memorial Gardens at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bram Funeral Home.

Pallbearers honoring Karen's memory will include Dylan Downen, Haldon Fugate, Easton Fugate, Trevor McCrary, Mike Striplin, and Glen Kahout.

Karen Fugate will be remembered for her kindness, her love for her family, and her unwavering spirit. She touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.