Kathleen Hance

Kathleen Gail Hance, a beacon of reliable love and endless compassion, gracefully departed from this world on March 29, 2026. Born Kathleen Sullivan on March 5, 1940, she was a woman of extraordinary loyalty, a trait that radiated through her every action and relationship. Her life was a testament to the words of Helen Keller: "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart."

Kathleen dedicated 27 years of her life to Carl Junction Lumber before retiring in 2005. Her work ethic was unparalleled and her dedication to her craft inspired those around her. Beyond her professional life, Kathleen was a passionate gardener, an enthusiastic bowler, and a skilled seamstress. She had a particular love for Morrell Mushroom Hunting, a hobby that brought her immense joy. As an active member of the Carl Junction Cemetery Board and the City of Carl Junction Chamber of Commerce, she was a well-respected figure in her community. However, it was her beloved family that mattered most to Kathleen.

Married to the love of her life, Paul Hance, on October 17, 1958, Kathleen was a testament to the deep, enduring love one can hold in a lifetime. She is survived by her devoted husband, Paul; daughter, Susan (Rick) Schultz; son, Arty (Shelley) Hance; daughter-in-law, Phyllis Hance, many grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her loving parents, Arthur and Naydeen Sullivan and her son David Hance. Her life was a beautiful journey, filled with love, loyalty, and the desire to make a difference in the lives of those she encountered.

A Visitation will be held Tuesday March 31, 2026, 5pm at Simpson Funeral Home of Carl Junction. A Graveside service will be held Wednesday April 1, 2026, 2pm at Carl Junction Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to good shepherd Hospice or First Christian Church of Columbus, KS.

In honor of Kathleen's life, we invite all who knew her to share their memories, stories, and photos on her memorial page. Let us celebrate Kathleen's life by remembering the reliable, loving, loyal, and compassionate woman she was. As Maya Angelou once said, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Kathleen Hance made us all feel loved, and for that, her memory will forever be cherished.