Mar 19, 1952---Sep 11, 2022

Karen Lee Wetschensky, 70, of Kansas City, KS, passed away Sunday, September 11, 2022 at her home. The Rosary will be prayed at 3:45 p.m. with the visitation from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, September 15 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1084 N. 94th St., Kansas City, KS. The Funeral Mass will be at 

1:30 p.m. Friday, September 16 at St. Patrick's. Burial will follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Patrick's School.  

   Karen was born March 19, 1952, in Kansas City, KS, the oldest child of Valentine J. and Theresa M. (Dercher) Ruzick. She graduated from Wyandotte High School in 1970 and received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Kansas University in 1974. 

    Karen married Richard L. "Dick" Wetschensky in 1974 and they celebrated 48 years of marriage this past June.  Karen had taught in the Kansas City, KS  Public School District for 12 years and  then took time off from teaching to raise her family.  She then started volunteering at  St. Patrick's School where her children attended. After her kids were grown, Karen then became a reading teacher at St. Patrick's School where she helped students use strategies to become more fluent and successful readers. Karen was very passionate about her teaching career. She worked extremely hard to motivate her students to reach their full potential.

    Karen enjoyed tending to her flowers and had many relaxing days boating with her husband and family at the Lake of the Ozarks. Karen loved spending time with her grandkids and attending their sporting events.

    Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Val and Theresa Ruzick. She is survived by her husband Dick and three children, daughter, Tracy Zager (husband Jon), daughter, Stephanie Cahill (husband Sean) and son, Andrew Wetschensky,  grandchildren, Josie Zager, Jace Zager and Michael Cahill, her 3 siblings and their spouses, Val and Sheila Ruzick, Kathy and Tom Andalikiewicz, John Ruzick and numerous nieces and nephews. 



Condolences

Patrice B Ludwig Sep 13, 2022

friend ,SHAWNEE ,Kansas

Karen was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside. I have never known someone with a brighter smile--or a brighter outlook on life. When we would see each other occasionally, I always enjoyed our chats--usually about kids or friends or life in general. Karen was genuinely interested in how others were doing. And she was fun and funny. The last time I saw her we were dancing together at a wedding reception. That is how I will remember her--smiling and enjoying life. I send my most sincere condolences to the entire family. Heaven just became a lot brighter--and a lot more fun. A fond farewell to you, dear Karen.

Marianne Glavinich Sep 13, 2022

I did not know Karen well, but when we would meet she was always incredibly kind and interested in hearing about my children and grandchildren. She always had a smile when I would see her in Lawrence at football games or at Tri Delta. I know she raised such sweet and caring children. I am praying for all her family and extended family. I am so upset I may not be able to attend either service. She will be missed.

Henry and Johneta Wille Sep 13, 2022

What a nice, sweet lady. May she Rest In Peace. Our sincere condolences to the family.

Nancy Zeller Sebree Sep 14, 2022

Friend ,Basehor ,Kansas

Karen was one of my most favorite people on this earth. We didn’t see each other often but when we did i always left with a smile on my face that could never match the bright smile she always expressed. I can’t imagine the sorrow you must be feeling, I will pray for all the family that you will find peace. We will not be able to attend the services so I wanted to express my condolences and prayers. God bless.

Jake & Nan Wolf Sep 14, 2022

So sorry for the loss of Karen. She was such a sweet person. She always had a beautiful smile and was so friendly whenever we saw each other. We won't be able to attend the service, but we are praying for all the family members during this difficult time.

Patti Johnson Sep 14, 2022

Acquaintance ,Kansas City ,Kansas

Karen was always friendly and had a smile. Buck thought a lot of Karen. Condolences to the family and that you can find peace.

Van & Gloria Sep 14, 2022

Friend ,Basehor ,Kansas

Shocked to see Karen in obituaries this morning. We are so sorry to hear of her passing. Sincere condolences to all her family and friends. Will miss her beautiful smile and friendship.

Les Clyma Sep 14, 2022

Friend ,KANSAS CITY ,Missouri

We are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time.

Nancy jane gates Sep 14, 2022

Cousin by marriage ,Olathe ,Kansas

Hello dear people, I must say I was shocked when jo shared with me as to karen. Dick we gates kids loved you and karen. I know there are times we get separated. She was so full of energy and so much fun to be with. I am so sorry but I know you have many great memories. And I know she will be greatly missed by family and all of us. My prayers and love are with you and your kids. I trust god will give you peace and comfort. Love, nancy jane gates, nottingham health facility, olathe, kansas.

Susan Shriver Sep 15, 2022

We are so sorry to hear of Karen's passing. She was such a wonderful person. We first were introduced to Karen as the Special Reading teacher at St. Patrick's. She was a fantastic teacher. After our kids graduated St. Patrick's, we would see her out and about from time to time. Karen had such a bubbly personality. She would tell us all about her grandchildren and how she loved spending time with them. I know she is going to be missed terribly. God has definitely gained another angel.

Marilyn Hauschild Sep 15, 2022

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

I am so very saddened. Karen and I met as room mothers in Piper and worked together on many Piper High School projects. When we would bump into each other throughout the years, it was always wonderful! We shared a love of teaching and helping children. My heartfelt condolences to her dear family.

Jeanie Teaney Sep 15, 2022

Tracy, My heart breaks for you and your family. May memories keep your mother close and knowing friends are thinking of you help you through this difficult time. With deepest sympathy, Jeanie Teaney

Mary Lou Nothnagel Peter Sep 15, 2022

friend ,SHAWNEE ,Kansas

Dick and family, I was stunned and heartbroken at the news of Karen's passing. It's been many years since I'd seen her and that's absolutely, my regret. I'll always remember her as someone who exuded happiness, love and kindness. Please know you're in my thoughts and prayers. - Mary Lou Nothnagel Peter

Krista Harding Sep 15, 2022

Friend ,Kansas City ,Kansas

Dear Wetschensky family, I am so sorry- there are not enough words that I could share that would even begin to express how special she was to us at Saint Patrick's Church and School- From watching and cheering for the Royals and Chiefs, to the wonderful treats she would bring for birthdays (Her pizza dip is legendary around here), to her always having everything that you could possibly need in the closet of her room- she was always taking care of us here at school- I am a better teacher, friend, and follower of Jesus for having known Karen. God Bless you all- you are all in my prayers. Krista Harding

Jason Kelso Sep 16, 2022

I am sorry I wasn’t able to make it to the visitation and very sorry for your loss. Jay

Dennis Janes Sep 16, 2022

FRIEND ,Kansas City ,Kansas

Dick SO SORRY!! Can't make it Me and Brenda have Covid I think we got it down at the lake it's a mild case hope its over soon!!!

Kathleen Shamet Chipman Sep 16, 2022

friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

So sorry to hear of Karen's passing. Peace to her family.

Steve and Betty Klemencic Sep 16, 2022

Friend ,Kansas City ,Kansas

Dearest Wetschensky Family, We have such wonderful memories of Karen, and each one brings a smile. She was always a bright light to everyone she met, and would always ask about our Family. I always loved sharing room Mom duties with her and she was a joy to be around. The world is a better place and I am sure that she will be watching all of you from Heaven.

Darryl and Vickie Nelson Sep 16, 2022

Friends ,Paola ,Kansas

Dick and family, our most sincere condolences to you all. Although time and miles have kept us separate I am sure that Karen will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathies, friend.

Frank felich Sep 16, 2022

Friend ,Kansas City ,Kansas

Dick and family I’m so sorry to here about Karen I’m keeping you and your family in my prayers God bless you and your family

Jeremy Hargis Sep 20, 2022

Friend ,Oklahoma City ,Oklahoma

I was so saddened to hear the news about Karen. My deepest sympathies go out to Dick, Tracy, Stephanie, Andrew and the rest of Karen’s extended family. I have fond memories of days spent playing next door at the Wetschensky house when I was little. Karen was always so caring, nice and welcoming. I’m so grateful that I was lucky enough to know her and that I have some great childhood memories in which she is certainly a part of. There’s no doubt she will be truly missed. Thoughts and prayers ❤️

The Fagan Family Sep 25, 2022

Acquaintance of Brother Val’s ,Leawood/Overland Park, Ks.

Val, we’re very sorry to hear about your sister. Bill is getting ready to finally retire soon. I’ll make sure we all grab a lunch. My number is 816/204-7931. I can grab a bite any time. Peace to your family. Tommy Fagan

Janice M. Taylor- Riggs Jan 25, 2023

High School Friends/Neighbor ,Kansas City ,Kansas

Karen was such a beautiful person in and out, . She was always friendly and always had a beautiful smile on her face. She was truly a special person to all that knew her

Services

Event:
Rosary
Location:
St. Patrick Catholic Church
Address:
1086 North 94th Stret
City:
Kansas City
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66112
Date:
Sep 15, 2022
Time:
3:45 PM
Google Map:
Event:
Visitation
Location:
St. Patrick Catholic Church
Address:
1086 North 94th Stret
City:
Kansas City
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66112
Date:
Sep 15, 2022
Time:
4:00 PM
Google Map:
Event:
Funeral Mass
Location:
St. Patrick Catholic Church
Address:
1086 North 94th Stret
City:
Kansas City
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66112
Date:
Sep 16, 2022
Time:
1:30 PM
Google Map: