Copeland - Karen Dunham, 85, died November 30, 2024, at her home in Copeland, surrounded by her family.  She was born on November 12, 1939 on the family farm near Dodge City, Kansas the daughter of Harry and Mildred (Arborgast) Hessman.

Karen's childhood was spent on the family farm.  She attended school in Dodge City, graduating in 1957.  On June 19, 1959, Karen was united in marriage to Don R. Dunham in Dodge City.  He preceded her in death on July 18, 2017.  After their marriage, they returned to Copeland to partner in the family business.  In 1965, Karen and Don took over Dunham Drilling, where Karen was the bookkeeper for the business for the next 56 years.

In her spare time, Karen enjoyed camping, gardening, yard work, and reading.  She was an integral part of starting the Copeland Senior Center and also cared for the Copeland Cemetery for a number of years.  She also enjoyed her family and spending time with them.

She is survived by three children, Melody Dahlke and husband DeLoy of Copeland, Dan Dunham and wife Melissa of Copeland, and Lisa Linville and husband Mark of Randolph, Nebraska; sisters and brothers-in-laws, Patty Million of Dodge City, Kitty Birney of Topeka, Jeannette Dunham of Conway, Arkansas, Victoria Dunham of Wichita, and Jack Dunham and wife Jacqualine of Wichita; nine grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren.  Karen is preceded in death by her husband, Don; her parents; and three siblings, Dean Hessman, Charles Hessman, and Barbara Jean Lotton.

Funeral service will be held at South Gray Junior High Gymnasium, Copeland on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 10:30 AM with Pastor Doug Harris presiding.  Burial will follow at Copeland Cemetery.  Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Chapel, Montezuma on Friday, December 6, 2024, from noon to 8:00 PM.  Memorials are suggested to the Copeland American Legion or the Copeland Cemetery in care of the funeral home. Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.