Karen Kay Westhusin

Karen Kay (LeRoy) Westhusin passed away on September 21, 2024, at Redbud Village in Plainville, KS, at the age of 60. She was born on October 21, 1963, to Kenneth Ray and Orpha Alice (Witt) LeRoy in Great Bend, KS. Karen married Fred R. Westhusin on December 29, 1995, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. They were blessed with two children: Isaac and Kathryn.

Karen grew up on a farm by Hudson, KS. She graduated from Montezuma High School in 1982. She then attended Barton Community College where she received her Associate’s Degree as a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant.

From a young age, Karen’s passion for flowers blossomed during a floral class in high school, sparking a lifelong dream of owning a flower shop. She brought that dream to life by crafting her own wedding flowers. Karen was skilled in various crafts, including knitting and crocheting, often creating heartfelt gifts for family and friends.

An active volunteer, Karen dedicated her time to the local food pantry, blood drives, and funeral dinners, always ready to lend a hand to those in need. She also served as past member of the DOI and was a member of the Rooks County Health Center Auxiliary.

Outside her professional and volunteer endeavors, Karen cherished moments spent camping, attending the Rooks County Fair where her children showcased their animals, and traveling to visit family. She had a special tradition of baking and mailing sugar cookies to her nieces and nephews on Valentine’s Day and holidays, spreading sweetness and love.

Karen leaves behind a legacy of creativity, kindness, and joy. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Karen is survived by her husband, Fred of Natoma, KS; children, Isaac and Kathryn Westhusin both of Plainville; brother, Mike (Jessie) LeRoy of St. John, KS; sisters, Kathy (Jerry) Hinde of Windsor, CO and Kristy (Mark) Moore of Shawnee, KS; several nieces and nephews; and her dog Tillie.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Orpha LeRoy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 10:30AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. Visitation will be on Wednesday, 6-8PM with a Vigil and Rosary Service at 7PM at the Church.

Memorials are suggested to National Association on Mental Illness (NAMI) and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.