Karen R. Carl, Teacher, mother, grandmother, wife and friend to many, died Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at her home in Andover Kansas. She was 67 year old. She died peacefully in the arms of her husband of 47 years. She was diagnosed
with Lewy body dementia in 2022.

Karen taught elementary grades throughout her career of 34 years in the Andover public school system where she was highly regarded for her skill as a teacher and for her compassion for her students. Karen was born June 11, 1958, to Jack and Carol Brown of Chanute Kansas and grew up alongside her younger sister Amy (Ogle). The Browns kept busy with family and church activities throughout Karen's childhood. She met her future husband Steven Carl while attending Chanute High School in 1975. They were married in Chanute in July 1978 and promptly moved to Pittsburg Kansas to attend university where Karen earned her first degree in education in 1980. They moved to Andover Kansas later that year and Karen began teaching at Martin Primary School in 1981. Karen subsequently earned a Masters degree in education from Wichita State University in 1998, among many other achievements and certificates including "Golden Apple". She retired from
teaching in 2015 after 34 years.

Karen loved her grandchildren and because they were nearby she was very involved in their many activities. She and Steve faithfully attended Hope Community Church until her dementia made it impossible. Karen was a private person. She chose a simple life. Those she called friends were very close and important to her. Home was her favorite place. Karen loved dogs and had a number of them around her most of her life. And, being uncommonly tender hearted, Karen's dogs were never very well trained! Karen was the cornerstone of the immediate family. Nothing was ever decided before the family sought her opinion. She was uncommonly wise.

Karen is preceded in death by: 2nd child, Matthew Paul Carl, her parents, Jack and Carol Brown, and father-in-law William M. Carl. Karen is survived by: Her husband, Steve, Children, Angela D. Funk (and Evan) of Andover, Aaron S, Carl of Wichita, Hailey E. Birr (and Chris) of Wichita. Grandchildren, Finley Funk, Landrey Funk, Whitley Funk, Bennett Birr. Her sister Amy Ogle (and Randy) of Chanute. Her mother-in-law, Nancy S. Carl, of Chanute.