Karen Lee Henderson

Karen Lee Henderson, of rural Hamilton, died on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at her home at the age of 90.

She was born on January 15, 1936, in Russell, Kansas, the daughter of Harold Albert and Erba Ellen (Harbaugh) Hollinger. She was raised in Russell, attending local schools and graduating with the Class of 1953. Karen later attended Fort Hays State University, where she met Frank Robert Henderson. The couple transferred to the University of Kansas together and were united in marriage on February 10, 1957.

They initially made their home in Eureka. The couple later moved to Kadoka, South Dakota, where they welcomed two children, and Karen worked as a doctor's receptionist. A subsequent move took them to Manhattan, Kansas, where she spent many years as an administrative assistant for the K-State Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work. In 1995, Karen and Frank retired to Flat Rock Ranch near Hamilton. Frank preceded her in death on February 21, 2024.

Karen was a devoted fan of the Kansas City Royals and K-State athletics. Deeply involved in her communities, she was a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Emporia. While living in Manhattan, she was active in the Order of the Eastern Star. Later, in Greenwood County, she proudly served on the county draft board, was active in the Sorosis Club, and was a member of the Economic Development Board for Eureka.

She is survived by her children: Tammy Davis and partner, Michael Mallek of Hamilton; and Todd Henderson of Kansas City, Kansas; six grandchildren: Justin; Patrick and his wife, Hannah; Amanda; Darien; Deanna; and Michael II and his wife, Kristine; five great-grandchildren; and one brother, Kenneth Hollinger and partner, Nadine of Russell, Kansas. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Frank.

Memorial services will be held at a later date. Cremation has been effected, and inurnment will take place at Greenwood Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Kansas State University Foundation. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, PO Box 595, Eureka, KS 67045, which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family online at koupfunerals.com.