Honoring the Life and Legacy of High School Counselor, Mrs. Kari Anderson
As many of our Lansing USD469 community members know, our district and community suffered a tremendous loss on Sunday, March 19th. One of our beloved high school counselors, Mrs. Kari Anderson, passed away after her battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and love that will continue to inspire us all.
Kari began her teaching career in Robinson, Kansas, before working for the Department of Defense in Japan. She later earned her Master's degree and went on to serve as a high school counselor in Junction City, Kansas, and Pleasant Ridge High School, before joining our team at Lansing High School as a college/career counselor four years ago. Kari's passion for education and her commitment to helping students achieve their goals was evident in all that she did, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Beyond her work as a counselor, Kari was an active member and leader in numerous church and civic organizations. She was a member and Chapter Regent of the Kansas State Society-Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), a member and Past President of a P.E.O. Chapter, and participated in several programs and activities at the First United Methodist Church, Leavenworth. Her impact on the community was far-reaching, and her dedication to service inspired all who knew her.
Kari is survived by her husband, Brian, and her children, Jonas and Anya, who are currently high school juniors at Lansing High School. She is also survived by her mother, Glenda Torkelson; brother, Kurt Torkelson; his wife, Amy; and their children - Aubrey, Chase, and Brody; and her mother-in-law, Colleen Anderson.
In the wake of Kari's passing, staff from across the district came together to support the Lansing High School community. On the day of her funeral on Wednesday, March 29th, colleagues stepped in to cover classes so that Kari's peers could attend the service and honor her memory. This act of kindness and solidarity speaks to the deep sense of community that Kari helped foster during her time at Lansing High School and serves as a testament to her lasting impact on all those around her.