Karie Rae Wildermuth

Karie Rae Wildermuth, 62, peacefully passed away on March 18th, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones after a long and courageous battle with COPD. Her life was a testament to love, resilience, and the joy of family.

Born on February 2, 1963, in Topeka, Kansas, Karie was the daughter of Marjorie and Dwayne Garner, and the stepdaughter of Elwin D. Long. She attended Seaman High School, proudly graduating in 1981, and embarked on a fulfilling career that included memorable scenes from Palmer News, Knoll Patient, Lundgren Elementary, Preferred Lawn, and Ace Plumbing- the best plumbers in Topeka.

On August 2nd, 1986 she married her “partner in crime”, and the love of her life, Paul Wildermuth. Their bond created a nurturing home where they treasured raising their two sons, Paul Jr. "PJ" and Jason "JD."

Family was the heartbeat of Karie's life; her children, grandchildren, dogs, and husband were the center of her world. Karie loved the water, from the ocean’s gentle waves, salty breeze, and feeling of warm sand beneath her feet, or hot summers spent floating in the pool- she found boundless joy in the simple things. Karie also found comfort in the tranquility of home, where she cherished quiet moments curled up with her pug, and basking in the simple memories and laughter created with family.

Karie is survived by her loving husband of 41 incredible years, Paul Wildermuth Sr., her two sons, Paul Jr. (Micaela) and Jason “JD” (Brooke), and four beautiful grandchildren Jaxson, Nora, Parker, and Liam. She is also survived by her mother, Marjorie Long, two sisters, Kimberly and Lorrie, three aunts, Mattie, Sonja, and Cheryle, and her loving and devoted pug, Jax.

Karie was preceded in death by her father, Dwayne Garner, stepfather, Elwyn D. Long, two aunts, Karen and Donna, three uncles, Gene, Kenneth “Gus”, and “Uncle Charlie”, cousin, Ellis Ray Dupree Jr. “Buddy”, and her loving pug, Sarge.

Karie's spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all who loved her, reminding us of the beauty found in both the grand adventures, and the tender moments shared with those we hold dear. She leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth that will not be forgotten. From the back steps of Palmer news, to the center of our universe – until we meet again, your ride is here.

A graveside service to honor Karie’s life will take place at 11:00AM on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025 at Mount Hope Cemetery, the casket will be open prior to graveside service for anyone wishing to pay their respects. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the American Lung Society in honor of Karie’s life.