Karen Sue Sliffe

Karen Sue Zellmer Sliffe, passed away peacefully, Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the age of 82. Karen was born March 3, 1943, the daughter of Barney and Darlene Zellmer.

Karen grew up on a farm in Butler, MO, where she also attended school and graduated from Butler High School. Karen went to work at Western Electric in Lee’s Summit, Mo, where she dedicated her working career, retiring in 1990 after 30 years.

In 1972, Karen was united in marriage to Charlie Sliffe. They were married for 53 years. Charlie also worked at Western Electric where he and Karen were able to retire at the same time.

Karen was talented at crafts and hobbies from crocheting, sewing, quilting, macramé, and she absolutely loved her flowers and her garden. She adored her grandson, Trevor, playing and going fishing, and attending all his school activities. To say she was a proud Grandma, would be an understatement!!

In 1990, after their retirement, the life of being travelers began, mostly going with a group of friends that called themselves, “TightWad Tours.” They went everywhere, and enjoyed each and every trip. After seeing everything on their list, they became “SnowBirds,” spending half of every year in southern Texas, close to the border. For 25 years, they lived this life. They absolutely loved it! Outings with friends, shopping in Mexico, going to Padre Island, enjoying the sunny winters. Karen’s long battle with Alzheimers, forced them to sell their Texas home, and return to living in Archie full time, where they were lifetime residents.

Karen was preceded in death by her husband Charles Sliffe, on May 17, 2025. Karen is survived by her daughter, Tracie Knight and husband Todd Knight, and grand-son, Trevor Knight of Belton, MO., step-daughter, Pam Forst, and husband Bryan of Jericho Springs, MO. Step-grandson Brett Simmons and wife Brittany, of Springfield, MO.

And, on behalf of my Mother, I would like to give a huge thank-you to the ladies of St Croix Hospice for their kind and compassionate care. They are truly Angels.

A celebration of life visitation will be held 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday, September 29, 2025 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Harrisonville Animal Shelter and sent in care to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701.