Karna Faye Ferguson Schroeder
March 21, 1936 ~ March 22, 2025
Karna Faye Ferguson Schroeder, 89, Retired Medical Professional, died peacefully surrounded by family Saturday March 22, 2025. Karna was a very loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, sister, neighbor and friend. Music was always a large part of her life since her childhood, as she played multiple instruments and had a beautiful voice. She loved laughing with her family, offered sharp wit, provided wisdom and guidance as her family matured, and was always a friend to those friends of her family. She was open to new experiences, enjoyed learning throughout her life, and traveled to exciting destinations including Bangkok and Europe. She remained very social and active throughout her life, and so valued being with others and enjoying life.
Visitation will be from 5:30-7:30pm Friday March 28, 2025 at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary 6555 E. Central, Wichita, KS 67206. A private graveside service in Kechi will be held Saturday March 29, 2025 followed by a public memorial service and light lunch at 11:00am at Grace Presbyterian Church, 5002 E Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67208.
Karna is preceded in death by her parents Clifford and Arlah Ferguson, husband Merlin, stepmother Evelyn, and stepson Thomas Schroeder.
Karna is survived by her sons Douglas Heck, Bradley (Jeannie) Heck, Michael Heck, step daughter Janna Walls, sister Nancy (Irvin) Pickett, brother Wayne (Barb) Ferguson, grandchildren Jason Heck, Erynn Heck, Benjamin (Ariel) Heck, Jeremiah (Tiffany) Heck, Alden (Nikki) Heck, Addison (Kyle) Schlatter, Avery Heck, step grandchildren Zachary (Christina Nguyen) Rickett, Shelby Walls, Anya Schroeder, Evan Schroeder and 18 great-grandchildren.
A memorial has been established with Sterling College Advancement Center, 125 W. Cooper, Sterling KS 67579, Ph: 620-278-4219. This will support students in music.
Services are in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary-East Chapel.
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My favorite memories of Karma are from our wonderful family reunions in Colorado. And the choir that they would put together for our morning service was always beautiful.
Karna was my sports buddy, riding along with me to volleyball games and basketball games. We took several bus trips together and adventured to Branson. I will truly miss my good friend. Sherryl Cutter
With deepest sympathy,
Karna was a good friend. I will miss her and the chats we had & the shopping trips we always called as Therapy. I will miss hearing the news about your entire family.
Rest in peace in Heaven. I will come as soon as my chores are done here.
just Connie Schlatter
I first met Karna 3 and a half years ago when I moved into Shepherds Crossing community. I had an opportunity to come to know over the last few years. She was such a wonderful lady and friend–smart, friendly, kind, and witty! I will miss her.
She was so much fun!
Was a great client/customer.
She will be missed!
Even had a Tequila shot with me and her Friend Connie.
She was open to new designs and artwork.
Rest in Peace Karna! Laura
Sending my sympathy! Karna was a very special one to me! She will be missed! God’s Blessings to her family!
Norma Townsend
6684 E Shepherds Crossing
Bel Aire, KS 67226
Karna has been in my thoughts a lot this week. After learning more about her at her service, I realized how much we had in common besides Grace:
Bridge – visits to Bangkok – Homecoming Queen! When I congratulated her
on the latest great grandchild lamenting that I had none, she said that she
could certainly loan me some. I so wish that I had taken advantage of the
opportunities I had to get to know her better. What a splendid memorial she
planned. How fortunate you all were to have her as your Matriarch! Celebrate your memories.
Sincerely,
Loretta Phares