Karen Diann Schank

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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, Russell County, Kansas, Karen lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, and an enduring connection to family and heritage.
Karen was the beloved daughter of John W. Schank and Marie (Nepereny), both of Czechoslovakian descent. She cherished her family's history and the values of hard work they instilled in her. Karen has a close bond with her older sister, Patricia, which continued until Patricia's passing. Her deep love for her family was evident in the ways she preserved family heirlooms, nurtured relationships, and safeguarded the legacies of both sides of her family. She especially took pride in sharing the history and memories of the Suchy heritage (from her grandparents Victor and Amelia (Suchy) Schank), and the Nepereny family farm.
A graduate of Great Bend High School's Class of 1959, Karen was recognized as a high achiever. She went on to attend the University of Kansas, and her education extended to Paris at the Université de Paris La Sorbonne, further sharpening the skills that made her a meticulous and dedicated professional. 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 developed an appreciation for learning about new cultures. 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 upkeep and preservation of the family home and farm.
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. Despite life's challenges, Karen's independence and strong will were always evident. 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; infant brother, William; and grandparents, including paternal grandparents, Victor and Amelia (Suchy) Schank. She is survived by many loving family members, including many cousins and friends, along with countless 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 with Father Prakash Kola presiding. 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.