Karen Jean Johnson Vanderbilt Fager, 81, of Hutchinson, died July 13, 2024, at Wesley Medical Center. She was born September 16, 1942, in Hutchinson to Ernest Eugene and Ruth Cook Johnson.
Karen graduated from Haven High School in 1960. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Emporia State University. She worked for 30 years at Waggoners, Inc.- an upholstery business in Yoder making cushions for church pews. After retirement, she enjoyed traveling, volunteering, making quilts, embroidering, reading and socializing at Delos Smith and Elmdale Senior Centers.
On June 10, 1962, Karen married Norman Eugene Vanderbilt. He died January 31, 1990. On August 8, 1992, she married Theodore Ted Fager. He survives.
She is survived by: her husband, Ted of Hutchinson; children, Christopher (Colleen) Vanderbilt of McKinney, TX and Paula Jean (Michael Benck) Vanderbilt of Denver, CO; brother, Perry (Linda) Johnson of Gardena, CA; sister, Susan Johnson of Hutchinson; two nephews and many cousins; and her second family: children, Deanna Rice and Donna Fager; grandchildren, Kandi Rice, Becky (Bill) Schreckengost, Kaylie (Clinton) Irwin; 9 great-grandchildren; and her kitties, Jessie, Micah, Gracie and Allie.
Karen was preceded in death by: her parents and husband Norman Vanderbilt.
Visitation with the family will be Wednesday July 17 from 6 – 8 pm at Elliott Mortuary. Funeral service will be Thursday July 18, 2024, at 2 pm at 1st Church of God- 704 N. Jefferson St, Hutchinson, with Pastor Tim Kraft and Rev. Dr. Kim Biery officiating. Burial will follow at the Burrton Cemetery, Burrton, KS. Friends may sign the book from 9 am to 8 pm Tuesday and Wednesday. The family requests everyone wear bright colors to the visitation and service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Hutchinson Zoo or 1st Church of God in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.