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Karen Flaschar Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Karen Flaschar
samantha vickson
March 25, 2008
samantha you can call me sam
Bobbie Ruth Langley (Wahonick)
January 6, 2008
Just read my e-mail (1/6/08), and feeling very lame because this entry is so late. It’s funny….I was just thinking about Karen the other day….(strangely/weirdly/and for the first time, mind you) considering going back to school to start earning the appropriate credentials to be eligible to teach music in the public school (of all things!), and thinking how I could never be as good as Karen. Not in a million years could I ever match her ability to accompany a soloist or a choir (did you know that she accompanied her own high school choir while she was still in high school? She was that good of a pianist early in her life!), but I also would find it very hard to match her ability to relate to, and direct, a group of wily teenagers. As a musical director she was able to get brilliance of her choirs, especially A Capella Choir, because they trusted her…100%. She started nearly every class with a funny (and always endearing) story, usually about Daniel or Katie, as a means of connecting with the group she was teaching. Even if no one else laughed, she would always laugh at her own story, or smile broadly, hunch her shoulders slightly, squinting her eyes in the process, looking up at all of us with that goofy smile (that would make anyone smile all by itself!). We simply couldn’t help but love her as she walked back to the piano bench.
Terrell Smith C/O '93
January 4, 2008
Flasch was more than a teacher she more like a friend/ a big sister. She has touched many lives and aided in the delevelopment of all of the great men and women that ever had the pleasure to meet her. She will be missed but forever remembered.
Jim Geison
December 30, 2007
I last saw Flasch when she was a guest organist at Trinity and I was back in Kirkwood visiting. Each time I saw her it was like I had never left and I was back in High School and Flasch was there with unconditional acceptance, support and encouragement. I remember how warm and safe it felt to hang out with Flasch and how much she contributed to my life in A Capella Choir and the school musicals. I am grateful to have known her and I know that she made thousands of other students feel just as special and loved.
Linh Do
December 24, 2007
Flasch put up with us who can't naturally sing, but made us better. I still remember all the show tunes. Thanks for giving us all a chance. And now that I live in Vietnam, I continue to karaoke what she taught us. I also use these skill with the children and orphans I work with in Vietnam. With love, Linh Do '93. www.WWO.org
Charmaine Manse Simpson
December 23, 2007
Ms. Flaschar, the best music teacher that I ever had. I basically discovered that I had a voice when under her direction. May God Bless everyone during this time of sorrow. I recently saw Ms. Flashcar at the music store, so it was refreshing to see her still involved in music. God has adopted an additional musical angel. You will be missed.
Charmaine (Manse) Simpson Class '82
Leslie Morris
December 23, 2007
Flasch had a huge impact on my life while at KHS and I am saddened to hear of her passing. She was a kind and generous woman that was always quick with a smile or an open ear and heart. She has obviously touched the lives of so many people and will be missed greatly. I feel very fortunate to have had her as a teacher and a friend.
Kelly Mills-Burdsal '85
December 23, 2007
What a terrible loss. "Flasch" was the teacher I spent the most time with in high school. Swing Choir, A Cappella, Freshman Chorus and as musical director of all the musicals I participated in. She was a warm, wonderful, caring teacher who made such an impression on every student she taught. Rest in Peace Flasch, there will never be another as wonderful as you!
Allison Prost
December 22, 2007
Katie, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I hope to see you soon. I love you and I miss your smiling face.
Tom Rodriguez
December 21, 2007
Karen,
The Lord bless you and keep you
The Lord make His face to shine upon you
And give you peace
And give you peace
The Lord lift his countenance upon you
The Lord bless you and keep you
The Lord make His face to shine upon you
And be gracious unto you
The Lord be gracious unto you
The Lord bless you and keep you
The Lord make His face to shine upon you
And give you peace
And give you peace
The Lord make His face to shine upon you
The Lord bless you and keep you
Ramona Bailey
December 21, 2007
Flasch was definitely one of my favorite teachers at KHS. Most memorable to me because of her genuine love and concern for all of her students. I too ran into her over the years and she was very interested in what I have been doing since KHS. Her words of wisdom, encouragement, and friendship will be greatly missed. To her children, know that your mother has left a positive lasting impression with many. God bless.
Samie (Tharp) Vaughn
December 21, 2007
I will always remember Flasch! I am not musically inclined, but as a freshman in her Chorus class, she took the time to teach me how to be better! I will always treasure her kindness and her open door! She was always there for anyone who needed to talk. She will be greatly missed.
Christy (Dyess) Jones
December 21, 2007
(Class of '85) As many others have said, she was the first person to affirm that I could sing well by accepting me in A Capella. I continue to sing and to remember lessons from those days.(In "egg-shells"see day oh) I hope to instill a love of music in my children, as she did in me.
Jennifer (Jones) Skinner '90
December 20, 2007
I think we all thought of Flasch as one of those people who would just be around forever. We had crossed paths several times over the years and her presence always brought a smile to my face. At this time of the year I think of her most- her dragging us all across St. Louis in the month of December to perform anywhere and everwhere. Our calendars were overloaded if not overbooked. It is fitting she picked this time to rest. She was the one person who pushed us to do our best and perform outside our comfort zone. She was an inspiration and a friend. I'll never forget the impact she had on my life. She believed in me whenever my confidence was low. She had a knack for that- picking all of us up by our boot straps. Dan and Katie, I thank you for sharing your mom with us. I know we took up alot of her time. Smile thru your tears when you think of her. I know I do.
Edward A. Smith (Class of '87)
December 20, 2007
Flasch, It is always during this time of year I think of you most often. Remembering the great times we had in A Capella, Swing, and Chamber Choirs. Words can not express how much I appreciate every thing you have done for me...particularly those years at KHS. I can still see you giving me your smile of affirmation during a performance. You made me feel so special, as if I were the World's greatest singer. Pippin, Camelot, Oliver, and The Music Man, were so much fun for us. You certainly were more than just a teacher...a confidant...driving instructor(we can laugh now)...and a friend. Thanks so much for making my world a better place. Your memory will be cherished forever. To Daniel, Katie, and Flasch's entire family, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Toby Purvis
December 20, 2007
I will never forget Flasch. I have so many wonderful memories of those days. She was a very special person to a lot of people. As I read through these entries, I am not surprised at how she touched so many lives. She will be truly missed.
Erika (Comegys) Rizer (Class of 90)
December 20, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Flasch. She introduced so many of us to some of the finest music ever written. I am honored to say I was a member of A Capella and a student of Karen Flaschar's.
Don and Priscilla Giltner
December 20, 2007
We wish to extend our condolences to the family of Karen S. Flaschar. She taught at Louisiana R-II High School when she began her career, and we were her principal and fellow teacher, respectively.
Madeline Hinrichs Marren
December 20, 2007
"Flasch" was an amazing person as well as a teacher. She touched so many lives and inspired us to achieve our dreams. She is a legacy and she will be remembered and honored for years to come.
Cindy (sitton) Blaylock
December 20, 2007
Word has just reached Louisiana Missouri where Ms Sajban 'got her start'. I am certain as word spreads to her students of the 70's they will share in fond memories of those days.
Myra (Cleckner) Leckey
December 20, 2007
It is always this time of year that I think of "Flasch" and my days in Acapella and Swing. I am deeply saddened and shocked to hear of her passing. She impacted my life in so many ways, and I know that she did the same for so many others. My prayers are with her family and with all of us who were a part of the extended version. I pray that my children will have a teacher that cares that much and instills confidence with such generosity of spirit.
Debbie Duncan
December 20, 2007
Sweet, Compassionate, professional, Funny, Never boring Flasch-Who loved to talk about her children and how much she enjoyed them...both at home and school. Until we meet again-Rest Well..I can only imagine:)
Stefanie King Warfield
December 20, 2007
As an '88 alumni, and former member of the A Cappella, Swing, and Chamber Choirs, my heart grew heavy and sank upon hearing of the passing of Flasch. She was an inspirational teacher, a positive influence, a mentor, and a friend to me, and to so many others. She enriched my high school experience and greatly shaped my appreciation of singing and musical theory. I continue to sing to this day, and I have Flasch to thank for this. My thoughts are with her family at this most difficult time. Flasch will be missed greatly.
Beth (Reeves) Otani
December 20, 2007
I was so sorry to hear about Mrs. Flaschar. I had her for freshman chorus way back in 1984 but her warm smile and wonderful way of making all the kids feel special will stay with me forever. She was definitely one of my all time favorite teachers. My sincere condolences to her family.
Julie (Duncan) Ballard (84')
December 20, 2007
My heart was saddened when I heard about Flash passing. A large part of my life has been centered around music...and Flash gave me the confidence to do it! I had so much fun with her in swing choir...just looking at my old pictures puts a big smile on my face. She was such a classy and gentle lady. I'm sure she is in heaven gathering the angels for a wonderful "Praise and Worship" session and reminding the angels to "smile big!" What a Christmas concert that will be!! Thank you, Flash, for your humor, kindness, and for teaching us with your whole heart! You will be missed all over the world.
Tricia Overkamp
December 19, 2007
"Flasch" was one of the very best teachers I ever had. Her faith in her students provided them with the means to fly. She will be missed sorely.
Tracy Binion (Class of '95)
December 19, 2007
I am the first to admit I am not musically inclined, but as long as I would participate and put my best foot forward, Karen would be right there. I got a life lesson from the class and that was do to a wonderful instructor. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the family and friends of Karen. Peace be unto you.
Karen Cassidy-Goewert
December 19, 2007
Just the other day I was thinking about Christmas concerts and Flasch. I was singing the alto part to the Benediction (The Lord Bless You and Keep You)...even after all these years, I still remember the words.
Flasch was special and, to her family, I am deeply sorry for your loss. As you have probably noticed, her students thought she was wonderful. I so enjoyed being in A capella. Flasch kept the tradition and put her own spin on things. She had a wonderful sense of humor and an ear that always told us when we were flat. She will be missed!
Capt. Pete Derenski C/O 1993
December 19, 2007
I never had Flasch as a teacher but had talked to her on a number of occasions at KHS. It was my great pleasure years later to run into her every so often when I brought a patient to St. Lukes. My prayers and deepest sympathies go out to her family.
JENNie Gott-Heines
December 19, 2007
Karen a.k.a "Flashface" (the Girls Swing Chior of '81) you were one in a million. Truly a wonderful person and an even better friend. Please let your family know how much everyone that knew you, mourns with them. Even years later when I saw you again in the mid 90's you were still the same warm glowing beautiful person that helped guide so many of us onward in life. I feel blessed (albeit saddened you are gone far too soon) to have had you as a part of this life. God Bless you and your family. Know that they are in my prayers.
Bruce Griffith
December 19, 2007
What a huge loss to Karen's family, friends, and all the students whose lives she touched. Karen was my vocal music instructor the three years she was at Louisiana High School. She was so full of energy, talented, and knew how to get her students to learn and perform to the best of their abilities. Her students loved her.
Chuck and Louise Koeshall
December 19, 2007
To Stanley and Shirley Sajban, Karen's parents, I'm so sorry about the loss of your daughter. I know Dan & Katie from church and had written a note to them. I recently lost my mother and could empathize and relate to their grief. I apologize, as I was so in tune with the loss of a mother, that I neglected to write a special note to you about the sad loss of your precious daughter! I didn't know Karen but I feel as though I know her spirit since I have read all these messages from the people who knew and loved her dearly! I'm sure you are very proud of who she was and take much joy that she's in heaven. Keep in mind, as I have with my mom, it's her first Christmas in heaven with the Lord Almighty celbrating the birth of Christ our Savior. It has helped me to think of them there amidst all of His Majesty
with no worries, sadness, illness, or pain. They are happy, in peace and we will all be reunited with our loved ones in God's perfect timing!
Our deepest sympathies!
Margaret Nardie
December 19, 2007
"Flasch" told my son that he could sing. Then she taught him. It's a blessing.
Marge Nardie
Christiane (Christy) Lincoln (Oster)
December 19, 2007
Flasch was a very amazing woman. I was pleased to be in her class back at KHS. I joked around with her and told her that I will be very pleased for her to be able to teach my children. I will always think about her around Christmas. She tought me a lot. She was and still is such a great person to be around (in our heart and memories). My prayers are to the her children and family at this time. Just remember she Loved each and everyone of us, just as if we where her children also.
Adam Wilson
December 19, 2007
Flasch was a 2nd mother, friend, confidante, and teacher to me throughout my time at KHS. She served as a mentor to so many, teaching us that we are capable of achieving much if we work together. I will miss her.
Tobin Fales
December 19, 2007
Flasch's life is sprinkled with the little things she did for each of her students every day. Be it a smile, words of advice, or homemade brownies. She made us feel special because she believed we were. I am sorry to hear she has passed.
Scott Splater
December 19, 2007
Being a band person I had to check out A Cappella to see what all the fuss was about and this "Flasch" person everyone said was so great. It was truly one of the best experiences of my life, musically and personally. Flasch was so much fun and got so much out of everyone -- she was without a doubt one of the best teachers I ever had and her legacy lives on in so many hearts and minds and lives, mine included. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the Flasch nation.
David Klein
December 19, 2007
I was never in choir, but Flash taught a great music theory course that certainly had a lasting effect on my music career. Thank you and rest in peace.
December 19, 2007
My deepest sympathies for your loss. "Flasch" was one of my favorite people and such a friend to so many of us that had the opportunity to know her. To this day people can't believe I was in choir in high school. Her ability to make anyone of her students realize that he or she could sing was a true gift. She will always be missed and will always be remembered.
Cam Conway, KHS Class of 1993
Ruth Baldwin
December 19, 2007
Karen was such an asset to the Kirkwood school district. I would always hear KHS students speak highly of her and her concerts were wonderful.
billy leyhe
December 19, 2007
It's this time of year that I always think of Flasch. Coming back to Kirkwood and popping in an old recording of our A Cappella choir always puts a smile on my face. From freshman choir to A Cappella to Swing, Flasch was a major part of my KHS experience. She was more than a teacher- a confidant, friend and 2nd mother. I will truly miss her.
Janet Crews
December 19, 2007
What a loss to music, education and life! Flasch too was one of my favorite teachers and offered me personal and academic guidance. Her classes were my niche in high school and music and dance continue to be a big part of my life as a result of the time I spent there. My heart and prayers go out to her family. She will be sorely missed.
Christine Fortner and Jesse Blanner
December 19, 2007
Flasch meant so much to me personally and professionally. She was a wonderful friend and a fabulous musician. She taught me and encouraged me to be the best singer and person I could be. It's because of her that I met my husband Jesse (in Swing choir...we were partners), and have become a professional singer and stage director. Flasch, I will always be grateful for the time we had together. Thank you and I love you.
Peter Nixon
December 19, 2007
The news of Karen’s passing comes as such a shock. I was a student of Karen’s at Louisiana High School of Louisiana, MO. It was her first teaching job, (1975), after earning her Bachelor’s degree. She was a favorite teacher as she seemed almost like one of the students, only in her early twenties at that time. She became a dear friend to me during my Junior and Senior years in high school, and we kept in touch for many years after I graduated. I now feel the pain of regret for having lost contact in recent years. I mistakenly took for granted that she’d always be there. It’s obvious that I’m just one of many students whose lives were touched by Karen over the years. She’ll be missed, but I’ll always treasure all the fond memories of our friendship. I extend my deepest sympathy to Daniel and Katie, and to Karen’s Mom and Dad.
Adam York
December 18, 2007
Ms. Flaschar was one of the most inspiring teachers and role models I had growing up. She seemed to really care about my life and interests which in turn made me a better person. Though I haven't seen her in years, I will miss her terribly. My heart goes out to her family...she was truly loved.
Cousins Michael and Margie Cervenak
December 18, 2007
As members of Karen's family we feel the loss and we share in the sorrow that is experienced by her children, her parents, other members of her family, her former students and her friends. In this situation we support each other with a transforming presence, which we hope serves as a concrete sign of God's unconditional love, sent by Him to be a light and companion to Karen's loved ones in our hour of darkness.
We will remember Karen for her legacy, which will ultimately and permanently transcend our grief. Daniel and Katie and her mother and father will remember their mother and daughter, respectively, for the lasting impression that she made on hundreds of her students at Kirkwood High School. As a wise man once said "Music makes everyone happy."
Today, Karen orchestrates a choir of angels.
Laurie Jerger Johnson
December 18, 2007
Karen helped me simply survive high school. I used to skip classes just to hang out in her office, one of the few safe places in my world at that time. I am deeply saddened to learn of her passing. My thoughts are with her family. Thank you for sharing her with all of us. Know that she made a difference in the world.
Steph Suetos
December 18, 2007
Flasch was such a light in our lives. She made us laugh, helped us bloom and express ourselves. I remember clearly Flasch behind her piano, fast to laugh, and fast to keep us in line, a memory we all collectively have and will always hold dear.
My condolences to your children and family and friends. I love that you were a part of my life, Ms. Flasch.
Marilyn McDonald
December 18, 2007
Dear Dan and Katie,
It seems right that your mom would reach heaven at Christmas--it must have been her favorite time of year here on earth. My, how her concerts and annual Christmas tapes/CDs are a part of our family's favorite Christmas memories! My son Mike ('96) and daughter Mary ('99) both sang in A Cappella and Swing Choir, and Mary was in Chamber Choir as well. I loved your mom--she was a fellow Valpo grad, and I worked with her for several years as the scriptwriter for the Broadway Dinner Theaters. She poured her life into her students, and spent so much of her personal time attending their celebrations, their games, and being a part of their lives. Karen may have had personal sadness, but you only have to glance at the list of tributes left here to know that she had a wonderful life. I hope that offers you some measure of comfort in your untimely loss.
Rob Zambrano
December 18, 2007
I think we can all remember that moment before a concert. We're lined-up and ready on stage. The audience is silent. And for a brief moment Flasch looks at us and it's like she's looking at each one of us in the eye.
We were being led by the best.
I cry for your family, Flasch. And I will always remember your greatness.
Lara Ratican Prestipino
December 18, 2007
Flasch was an amazing woman and I'm blessed that I was part of her world for those few years at KHS. I will always think of her on performance nights making faces at the choir, encouraging us to smile, silently praising us for a job well done. She was such a treat to be around. My prayers are with her children and family at this time. Peace.
Larry Bridwell
December 18, 2007
Dan and Katie,
I was stunned and deeply saddned to hear of your mothers passing. She was not only a Teacher of Music, but a Teacher in Life and most of all, she was my Friend.
Kate (McCaskill) Dewey
December 18, 2007
Flasch made choir something that people wanted to be a part of. She was creative and kind, and always approachable. As a choir director now myself, I am grateful for her example of constant encouragement and striving for excellence. Her life was a gift to many.
Mary Grace McCaskill (KHS 1995)
December 18, 2007
Dear Dan and Katie,
May this guestbook serve as a reminder to you of the many lives your mother touched. She was a blessing and encouragement to so many individuals. To me she was a friend, a wonderful teacher, a genuine encourager, and a joy to be with. I am grateful to have had her as a teacher and friend.
Suzannah Ancell Weir
December 18, 2007
I was deeply saddened to hear the news of Flasch’s passing. She was such a fun, generous teacher who genuinely cared about her students. Singing in A Cappella was always the highlight of my day at KHS. She will be sorely missed.
December 18, 2007
"The Flash" was devoted to her students. She loved each of them in the way they needed to be loved and accepted. Jim Longnecker, a student of hers, was in a car accident , in a coma for four months and permanently disabled. She came to visit him 2-3 times a week for the six months he was at St. Johns. Karen played keyboard to help keep him stimulated; she also brought the KHS choir to perform for him. Karen was a big part of Jim's life and his rehabilitation---she was so loved by her "kids". She will be missed in this world.
Penny Longnecker
December 18, 2007
"The Flash" was devoted to her students. She loved each of them in the way they needed to be loved and accepted. Jim Longnecker, a student of hers, was in a car accident , in a coma for four months and permanently disabled. She came to visit him 2-3 times a week for the six months he was at St. Johns. Karen played keyboard to help keep him stimulated; she also brought the KHS choir to perform for him. Karen was a big part of Jim's life and his rehabilitation---she was so loved by her "kids". She will be missed in this world.
Maggie Fales
December 18, 2007
Flasch was the most beloved teacher at KHS. She knew us not just as students but as individuals. Singing with Flasch was always the best hour of the day. She was encouraging, she was generous, and she was fun. Of all my work in high school, the work we did with her is still the most important to me.
I miss you, Flasch. The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord lift his countenance upon you and give you peace.
Kyle Kienker
December 18, 2007
Flasch was a great teacher and an even better friend. She had a way of relating to her students that made them feel more like a friend then a student. My heart and prayers go out to her family,friends and all the people who's lives Flasch touched and made for the better.Class of 98.
Anastasia Barnett
December 18, 2007
My heart stopped when I found out that Flasch had gone to be with the Lord. A flood of special memories came back to me. She was an important part of my life in high school. My heart goes out to Daniel and Katie as does her entire family.
Mark and Janet Roock
December 18, 2007
As parents of two who sang in A Cappella, we witnessed Flasch's love and encouragement that helped young people thrive. Flasch also played on several occasions for our church services, always a treat for us. We share your grief, and we hold tight with you to the reality of Resurrection in our Lord Jesus.
Kurt Pollman
December 18, 2007
My thoughts go out to Karen's family. They have lost an incredible friend, mentor, and teacher. Flash inspired me to be a teacher. She will forever be missed by my family.
Annie Custer
December 18, 2007
I was blessed to meet Flasch early on in my life when my older brother started at Kirkwood. At 6 year old I started passing out programs at the concerts. With my sister in between...we were all at KHS from 81-94...loving and learning from Flasch. She was so much more that a teacher. She was a life builder. She is very sorely missed. Continuous prayers and thoughts surrounding her family. God Bless
David Porkola
December 18, 2007
Dan and Katie,
It was my privilege to work with your mother at Shattingers for several years. Her kind, positive, attitude brought a special warmth to the store. She was an excellent choral director - her choirs were always a pleasure to hear. I will miss her quiet helpfulness and efficiency in the future. May God take her to himself to dwell in the heavenly choir.
Chris Snyder
December 18, 2007
Dan and Katie, We are so sorry for your loss. Words cannot decipher the pain of losing a parent, but know she is in peace watching over you both! Use comfort of family and friends during this trying time and you will recieve the calming hand of your mother on your shoulders.
You're both in our thoughts and prayers. Chris Snyder & Jennifer Beal.
Chris Amelung (Class of '90)
December 18, 2007
Flasch was more than a teacher, she was a mentor and friend. I am who I am today, in part because of her guidance. Thanks, Flasch, for everything.
Allie Brown
December 18, 2007
What a loss to all. I always wanted to be in Acapella and when I FINALLY made it my senior year it was even better than I had imagined. Flash was a fantastic, fun teacher. I still have my very poor quality tape recording of all our performances from that year and dust it off every now and then to listen to just how great she made us. She was and will always be a star. Your family is in my heart at this very difficult time.
Michael J. Cervenak
December 18, 2007
Deepest sympathy to Daniel and Katie Flaschar, Karen's children and to Stanley and Shirley Sajban, parents of Karen R. Flaschar who graduated on December 13, 2007 to God's heavenly choir.
Chuck and Louise Koeshall
December 17, 2007
Dan & Katie,
We can imagine your sorrow and sadness since your mom has gone to be with the Lord. Rejoicing that your mother is in heaven, it's her first Christmas WITH the Lord, singing His praises, expressing her adoration in HIS majestic prescence!
As you may or may not know Ann Dugo (my sister) and I recently lost our mother (Nov. 8). She also was a gifted singer who used her talents to praise the Lord most of her life. She is now singing with your mom in the most unbelievable place there is!!
May this be the utmost comfort as you grieve and miss her. Her memory, love, lessons, example and spiritual gift to you will stay with you moment to moment forever!!
Our sympathies are with you.
(West Springs Church)
Lauren Talley
December 17, 2007
ms.flasch was more then my music teacher but she was a mentor. she always provided a safe and welcoming place to come and relax. me and my friends would come and eat lunch in her room at least 3 times a week. she was always there to talk and lend an ear. she always brought out the best in everyone. no one ever wanted to miss her class. acapella was the hottest class to be in. thanks for providing a place for me to sing. thanks for everything flasch.
Steve Custer (Class of '85)
December 17, 2007
"Flasch" will be greatly missed. As one of my favorite teachers in High School, she was an inspiration for my life. She was so kind as to attend my 40th birthday party just this last April. I know that she is resting with her savior now and pray that her children are blessed with peace and understanding. Your family is in our prayers.
Beth Huch
December 17, 2007
My family will sorely miss "Flasch." She was a mentor to me, Beth Custer (class of '89)my older brother, Steve Custer (class of '85) and younger sister, Annie Custer (class of '94.) She just attended Steve's surprise 40th birthday this past April and was in good spirits. We were all so happy to see her and show her pictures of all of us in Swing Choir, Acapella and Chamber Choir. I'm glad we had the chance to tell her what an impact she made in all of our lives.
Drew Austin
December 17, 2007
Dan and Katie,
Your mom was a second mother to 26 years of students at KHS, including myself. Her life enriched so many others through the years. Even though I can't be there for the service, I know I will be part of a huge choir singing the Benediction on our own, in our own way, all over the world. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Carrie Donald (Hilleary)
December 17, 2007
I am so sorry to hear about Karen's passing. I was a a member of the ACapella choir for 3 years at Kirkwood High School. (Class of 1983). She was such a wonderful teacher and we performed some of the most beautiful music. I have a great love of Palestrina and Vaughn-Williams to this day. I am a music teacher today and thank her so much for the gift of music she gave to me and all of us who were in her choir. My prayers will be with your family.
Sally Grotpeter-Sullivan
December 17, 2007
I am deeply saddened to learn of Flasch's untimely death. She was the person who first truly encouraged me in my singing, and even today, at 36, I haven't stopped. She was always much more than a teacher. She was a friend. I'll always remember the fun Christmas parties she had for us at her home. My prayers go out to her family.
Jade Pounds Class of 00
December 17, 2007
Hey Flash,
I know you can't hear me but are looking down on me from Heaven. I just found out about your passing and find myself still in awe...I can't believe you're really gone. You were a great friend and wonderful teacher. We shared many laughs, tears, and wonderful A Capp and Kaleidoscope memories. I can't make it to your funeral but I will definitely be at your wake to send you off with the style and class you deserve. Make sure you keep those angels up there in perfect pitch now you hear? I love you more than words could ever tell and actions could ever show. Until we meet again at the greatest concert ever known to man...
Joseph Pahl
December 17, 2007
I sang with Karen's son in high school. She spent hours helping us with four part harmonies in her basement. "Flacsh" was an amazing teacher, she was able to get us to sound better than anyone else could. She will be missed by everyone who knew her.
St Lukes Hospital ER
December 17, 2007
Karen was always here every Sunday rain or shine with a smile at St. LuKes ER. She helped us out in so many ways. She would check on our patient and made sure they were comfortable especially by getting us pillows. She will be missed by us all. St Lukes ER staff
Kyle Hawkins (Class of '89)
December 17, 2007
I wish I could be in St. Louis for the funeral. I can still sing songs in my mind word for word, like "The Last Words of David", "Great Big Dog -- Tiny Little Bee" and they remind me of so many happy times in her class. "Flash" was such a central figure in my High School education. She never failed to win the "Most loved teacher" awards, and with good reason. She cared about each of us, passionately. My heart certainly sank when I heard the news.
Mandy Sayles
December 17, 2007
Karen Flaschar was an incredible woman. She inspired me and taught me so much. I will be forever in her debt. She is the reason I went on to be lover, performer and teacher of music. Without her influence and teachings I don't know where I would be.
Rachael McCreery
December 17, 2007
She was my mentor and friend, and the reason I am a teacher today. I know that there are many more like me who were pushed and inspired to be better people because of her caring. Flasch will be sorely missed.
Linda Lockhart
December 17, 2007
I am saddened to learn of Karen's unexpected death.I give thanks for her service to Kirkwood High School and for her care and teaching of my children. My prayer for her family is that you take comfort in knowing that she is a rest with the Lord.
Pastor Robert Sharp
December 17, 2007
To Karen's family,
We will miss Karen greatly at Zion-Maryland Heights. She was the organist and soloist at my Ordination Service back in 1996 and a great favorite among our congregation. Thanks to Karen's father for contacting us with this sad news. We were pleased to give thanks to God on Sunday for the many blessings He showered on our worship services through Karen's beautiful music. Certainly Karen's musical gifts will be of great value among the choirs of heaven. God's peace to her family and friends as we await the second Advent of our Lord.
Jennifer Ryrie
December 17, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to Karen's family. She was a tremendous contributor to music in schools, at Shattinger's, and the community. She will be missed by all.
Chris Giebel
December 17, 2007
As another former Shattinger Employee, I was deeply saddened to hear of this tragic news. May God be with Karen's family and friends knowing that she is with her Lord and Savior in Heaven.
Jean and Jim Gutchewsky
December 17, 2007
We are so sorry to hear of Karen's passing. She was a wonderful teacher and person who impacted many lives positively.
Our deepest sympathy to her family and friends.
Richard Boyd
December 17, 2007
My prayers are with Karen's beloved family, whom she loved so much. She will be missed, but never forgotten, for all the good she has done. She has touched countless lives through her love of music and instilling that love in all the students she encountered.
In her work at Shattinger's she also was tremendous help to so many, in choosing music for their various concerts and programs.
As we await the coming of our Savior, the Prince of Peace, we can be assured that even now, she knows true peace.
Mark & Anne Stewart
December 17, 2007
Dan & Katie,
We are sad to hear about your mother's death. She will always be remembered for her kindness, musical talents and the abililty to bring out the best in other people which is especially evident in the way that she has raised her children. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.
Joyce Gallegos-Wigand
December 17, 2007
I am a former employee of Shattinger's and when I heard of Karen I immediately knew she was right in heaven. My family and I are praying for your family.
Becky Owler
December 17, 2007
I love you Katie-Roo! My thoughts and prayers are with you - just as they always have been.
Nola French
December 17, 2007
Karen will be deeply missed by all who where touched by her and her musical talents. Karen played for my wedding and was our number 1 choice for guest organist at church (Zion Lutheran / Maryland Heights) My heart goes out to her family. We will keep you in our prayers.
Gary Lessmann
December 17, 2007
We are shocked and deeply saddened with the death of Karen. I will forever treasure her memory, the times spent singing with her and her smile. May you rejoice in the true hope of the Resurrection
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