Karen Gayleen Wiltz

Karen Wiltz once said, “Silent thoughts of time together hold memories that will last forever.”

Karen Gayleen Wiltz, age 88, a cherished community member of Sabetha, Kansas, passed away on Friday, May 2, 2025. She lived a life of dedication, service, and kindness toward those around her.

Karen was born on October 21, 1936, at Axtell, Kansas, to Henry and Opal (Smith) Buchholz. Karen spent most of her career as a laboratory technologist at Sabetha Community Hospital. In her spare time, she was an avid horse raiser and breeder. Her tireless dedication to making others happy left a lasting impact on many lives in our community. Karen will be deeply missed.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Michael David Baker; her brother, Jay Buchholz; and a sister, Diane Barger.

Karen is survived by her daughter, Denise Baker; her brother, Thayer (Butch) Buchholz; her sister, Eleanor Latham, all of Sabetha; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will hold their memories of her close to their hearts.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Popkess Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.