Karen L. Crumbliss

Karen Louise (Barnard) Crumbliss was born on February 16th, 1942 to Ralph and Blanche Barnard. She was welcomed by two siblings, sister Joyce and brother Jerry. Karen grew up in Caldwell and attended the local school. She was a member of the twelve year club graduating in 1960. She made many lifelong friends while going to school. When she was a junior in high school, she started going with Richard (Dick) Crumbliss. They were married three years later on August 12th, 1961.

To this marriage two sons were born, Richard James and Justin Lee. The family farmed near Caldwell until the boys were raised. They had many good times during this period enjoying close friends and watching the boys grow up.

Once the boys were raised, Dick and Karen left the farm and went to work for an oil company in 1986. Karen was a great partner during these years of moving around to different locations. She made good friends wherever they lived. In late 1989, Karen and Dick suffered the loss of their son Richard James. This was devastating to Karen because she loved both of her sons so much.

When retirement rolled around in 2012, they were not sure where they wanted to live, several options were considered, the lake, gulf coast or the mountains. Their grandson, Richard Scott had moved to Caldwell, and when Karen learned that Justin was also moving to Caldwell, it was a done deal. Karen said back home it is. They truly loved being back near the family and lifelong friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, sister Joyce, brother Jerry and son Richard James.

She is survived by her husband Richard Lee (Dick), son Justin, grandson Richard Scott, great-grand-daughters Piper and Marrin, great-grandson Richard Austin, goddaughter and niece Amber Servis, numerous nieces and nephews and many dear friends that she cherished her entire life. She was a special person and will be greatly missed.

Following cremation, memorial graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at the Caldwell City Cemetery, Caldwell, Kansas. A Celebration of Life will follow at Sugar Sisters, 20 S. Main, Caldwell, Kansas.

Memorials may be made to Central Christian Church and sent in care of the mortuary.