Mary Kathleen Klufa
December 10, 1945 ~ September 18, 2026
Celebrating the life of Mary Kathleen Klufa, who passed away surrounded by her loving family on September 18, 2026.
Born in Wichita, Kansas, on December 10, 1945, Mary’s life was a testament to her enduring qualities of being loving, empathetic, intelligent, kind, and loyal.
Mary graduated from Wichita East High School, followed by Wesley School of Nursing and Wichita State University. Her dedication to healthcare was evident through her compassionate career as a medical-surgical RN, Diabetes educator, and post-part nurse at Wesley Hospital.
A devout member of Refuge Church, Mary’s faith was an integral part of her life. She found great joy in reading, traveling, and cherishing moments with her family. An active member of ACAP, a local travel group for older individuals, Mary also had a love for theater, sporting events, and the arts, which she enthusiastically shared with those around her.
Described by many as one of the kindest individuals ever, Mary leaves behind a legacy of warmth and generosity. She was a devoted wife to her late husband, Kenneth Klufa, and a loving mother to Derek (Sonni) Klufa and Nicki (Bob) Albert. Her joyful spirit will also be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Payden Manuel, Kale (Aubrey) Klufa, Mia Albert, Micah Albert, Lizzie Albert, Ella Klufa, Cambria, Milo, and Atlas Manuel. Mary’s familial circle extends to her siblings, Kathy (Steve) Shanelec and her cherished “sister in heart,” Cindy Adams.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Isabel Whittle, her husband, Kenneth, and her brother, Robert Whittle.
Mary Kathleen Klufa’s profoundly kind spirit and unwavering care for others have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed but graciously remembered.
In remembrance of Mary’s remarkable life, memorial contributions can be made to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice, 313 South Market, Wichita, KS 67202 or Refuge Church, 10850 W. 21st St. N Wichita, KS 67205 supporting entities that meant a lot to her.
Visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., Thursday, September 24, 2026, at Downing & Lahey West Mortuary. Funeral will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 25, 2026, at Refuge Church.
Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuaries — West Wichita.
Services
Visitation: Thursday, September 24, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Downing & Lahey West Mortuary
10515 W. Maple
Wichita, KS 67209
Funeral Service: Friday, September 25, 2026 10:00 am
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Mary Kathleen Klufa 's name.
Refuge
10850 West 21st St. N
Wichita,
KS
67205
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Worked with Mary at Wesley. She was a onderful, caring nurse, and friend. She will be missed here on earth.
Mary was a valuable member of our travel committee and she and Ken led many great trips. She was always helpful and eager to plan for trips. We will miss her upbeat smile and giving spirit.
Dennis and Ara Ann Duty
Rodger & Connie Thompson, Mary is such a special lady, a dear sister in Christ, and though we will miss her greatly, we look forward to seeing her again in our Father’s house.
I knew Mary through Music Theater and ACAP. I always enjoyed sitting with Mary and Cindy at our lunch meetings and traveling on trips with them. It won’t be the same without her. Mary is on the best trip of her life now traveling to Heaven and her beloved Kenneth.
Mary’s Family; May our great God provide all the peace and comfort you need. I knew Mary because of Ken as I was his Newton friend and met her during her Wesley nursing school days. She had such a sweet personality. I know she will be missed. Cathie and I lived in Wichita for 50 years and occasionally would see them. Ten years ago we moved to CO and have missed both Ken and her.
Blessings
Jim Jantz Firestone, CO
Mary served as a leader in Bible Study Fellowship. She was always witty and cheerful. So happy that she is getting to see her Savior and Lord Jesus Christ whom she loved and served face-to-face.