Karen Lea Wynn

Karen Wynn of Lenexa, KS, passed away on October 5, 2024, after a courageous battle with ampullary cancer, a rare form of gastrointestinal cancer. She was 76 years old. Born to the late Lee and Pat Mawby, Karen grew up in Raytown, MO. She was preceded in death by her son, Andy Wynn, and her brothers, Don Hovis and Bob Mawby.

Karen is survived by her three children, Barbra Gonzales (husband David) of Olathe, KS, Robert Wynn of Lenexa, KS, and Rebecca Boeckman of Raytown, MO. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Maggie and Audra Gonzales, Ryan, Jerrod, Griffin, and Fiona Wynn, and Isabelle and Logan Wynn. Karen’s daughter-in-law, Rachel Potter, and her sister, Linda Mawby of Kansas City, KS, also mourn her passing.

Karen grew up in Raytown, MO and graduated in 1966 from Raytown South High School, 9th out of 461 in her class. Her favorite subjects were math and science and she enjoyed playing the violin. Karen stayed at home to raise her four children until 1987 when she decided to return to college, advancing her education. Karen obtained her Associate of Arts degree from Johnson County Community College in December 1990 and a Bachelor of Science in Education with Elementary and Middle School teaching certification from the University of Kansas in 1995. After working as a substitute teacher, Karen entered the financial services industry, working at Chrysler Financial as an Administrative Assistant for 12 years, from 1996 to 2008. Following her time at Chrysler, she worked as a Health Care Patient Advocate for 4 years until her retirement in 2012.

Diagnosed with cancer in November of 2023, Karen faced each step of her treatment with strength and hope, enduring rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and a Whipple surgery on August 23, 2024. Through it all, she remained a source of love and inspiration for her family. Karen was a devoted mother, always present for her children and grandchildren, offering unwavering support and care. “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” (Proverbs 31:26) She found joy in reading, science, the outdoors, and above all, spending time with her family.

Karen’s legacy of kindness, strength, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her children thank her for all the sacrifices she made for their family. She was the heart and soul of the family and will be missed terribly. “Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.” (Proverbs 31:31)

We are remembering Karen with a contribution to the GI Cancers Alliance, www.gicancersalliance.org, in honor of her fight against this rare disease. A private celebration to remember Karen’s life will be held for immediate family.