The Superior Express -

Karlene Jo Konovalsky was born on July 2, 1950, the fourth daughter of Alfred and Elvie (Monson) Konovalsky.

She graduated from Courtland High School in 1968 and from Bethany College, Lindsborg, Kan., in 1972. Her first job after college was at the Sheridan County Hospital, Hoxie. It was in Hoxie that she met Charles (Chuck) Buechman and they were married on May 31, 1975. They had two sons, Andy and Randy. They moved to Larned in 1992 and she worked at the Larned Correctional Mental Health Facility for the next 23 years, retiring in 2015. After her retirement, they moved to Schowalter Villa, Hesston.

Two organizations she felt passionate about were donating blood to the American Red Cross and supporting KETCH (Kansas Elks Training Center for the Handicapped).

She attended the Hesston United Methodist Church. She was a 50-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star holding many offices and gaining many friends during those years.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Alfred and Elvie; and sister, Karen Adams.

She is survived by her husband, Chuck; sons, Andy, Abilene, and Randy, Prosper, Texas.

A private family service will be held Sunday, at the Hesston United Methodist Church with the service being live-streamed on the Hesston United Methodist Church Facebook page.

Burial will take place at Ada Lutheran Cemetery, south of Courtland at 11 a.m., Monday. A short public graveside service will be held, persons attending the service are requested to wear masks or other facial coverings, and to practice social distancing.