Karen Sue Whalen, 71, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Crown Care in Harrisonville. Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville. Burial in Oakland Cemetery in Harrisonville, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Born on October 12, 1954, in St. Louis, MO, Karen was the daughter of Vernon and Mary Elizabeth (Schlueter) Sax. Throughout her life, she enjoyed meeting new people, listening to music, and dancing. She had a vibrant personality and was never afraid to share her thoughts or strike up a conversation.

Most importantly, Karen was a woman of faith. Her belief in the Lord was a source of strength throughout her life, and she found comfort in her Christian faith.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon and Mary Elizabeth Sax, and her son, Jeffrey Whalen. She is survived by her son, Michael (Della) Whalen of Pevely, MO; her brothers: Robert(Bonnie) Sax of St. Louis, MO; and James Sax of Fort Myers, Florida; her sisters: Mary Jane DuBose of Fenton, MO; and Susan Rush of Belton, MO; four grandchildren; dear friend, Kathie Sax, of Wentzville, MO; and dear friend, Herb Brier, of Harrisonville, MO.