Karen Kay Wuehler

Karen K. Wuehler of Cozad passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Friday, February 13, 2026 at the Cozad Community Hospital at the age of 81.

Karen was born on May 22, 1944 at Gothenburg, Nebraska to Fred and Ella (Koester) Block. Her life was a tapestry woven with love, teaching, and service to her community. A proud graduate of Gothenburg High School, she completed her education in 1962, marking the beginning of a fulfilling journey that led her to touch the lives of many.

On August 12, 1962, Karen married Eddie Wuehler at the American Lutheran Church in Gothenburg, Nebraska. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Troy, Todd, and Tricia. Together, they created a warm and loving home that was the heart of their family.

Karen dedicated an impressive 35 years to teaching preschool, where she shared her love for learning with countless children. As a dedicated Sunday school teacher for 65 years, she shared her love for Jesus, fostering their spiritual growth. She cherished receiving graduation announcements from the kids she taught, taking pride in their achievements as if they were her own.

In addition to her teaching career, Karen ran a successful cleaning business and was an active caregiver in the Cozad area. She generously assisted many people with various tasks, including grocery shopping and doctor appointments, always willing to lend a helping hand.

Karen had a passion for her flower garden, where her efforts earned her the title of "yard of the month," and her home was featured on the Cozad Christmas Tour of Homes. She loved to take vacations to Estes Park, where the beauty of nature and family time brought her joy. Walking her rescued dogs brought her immense happiness and filled her days with warmth.

Karen's legacy lies not just in her accomplishments but in the hearts of those she touched throughout her life. She is remembered by her family and friends as a kind, loving, and dedicated person who made the world a better place through her teaching and caring spirit.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Bernie Block; and nephews, Alan Block and Craig Abbott.

Karen is lovingly survived by her husband Ed Wuehler of Cozad; children, Troy Wuehler of Cozad, Todd (Karen) Wuehler of Cozad and Tricia (Tim) Maline of Gothenburg; 9 grandchildren, Brooke (Nathan) Chrisp, Briauna Wuehler, Bristen Wuehler, Timaree (Jeremy) Colliers, Travis (Stacy) Munster, Chelsey (Victor) Olvera, Peyton (Korey) Ahlenstorf, Hailey (Hayden) Gibson and Courtney Maline; 24 great grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren; twin sister Sharon (Don) Abbott of Gothenburg; sister in law, Lola VerMaas of Kearney; and many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

Memorials are suggested to the Trinity Lutheran Church in Gothenburg or St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Gothenburg. Burial will follow at Cozad Cemetery. Visitation with family present will be Tuesday, February 17, 2026 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Berryman Funeral Home.