Evans, Grace 1934-2024 Wathena, Kan.

By NewsPress Now

WATHENA, Kan. – Grace Darlene (Karn) Evans, 90, passed from this life Nov. 26, 2024, in Wathena, Kansas, with her loving family at her side. Grace was born on a farm outside Troy, Kansas, July 31, 1934, the youngest child of George V. Karn and V. Berniece Karn. Grace attended Hickory Grove and Mosquito Creek schools.

Grace married Richard E. Evans, of Wathena, Dec. 1, 1951, in Fanning, Kansas. They were together for 62 years until his passing on Feb. 19, 2013. Grace worked at Whitaker Cable and retired from Quaker Oats. She loved her family, her home, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Grace collected dolls for many years. She started with Shirley Temples, went on to antique bisque dolls, and finished with Eloise Wilkin dolls from the 1960s. She was a trusted source in the St. Joseph community and beyond on collectible dolls of all kinds and was a prominent member of the Society of Memories Doll Museum until its closing.

In addition to her husband, Grace was preceded in death by her parents and three siblings, George B. Karn, Alfred L. Karn, and Norma J. (Karn) Glenn.

Grace is survived by her children, daughter, Linda Evans; sons, Richard A. Evans (Peggy), and Roger D. Evans (Jayme), all of St. Joseph. She is also survived by six grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren. Grace is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Carlene (Shields) Karn and Carol (Grens) Evans; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, and friends.

The family wishes to thank the staff of The Willow, in Wathena, for their care and compassion in the last two years of Grace’s life.

Graveside Farewell Services & Interment 1 p.m. Tuesday, Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Noyes Home for Children or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.