Karen J. Nicolay

Karen Jean Thomas-Nicolay, born June 16, 1941, in Evansville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, in her home at Cedarhurst Senior Living in Topeka, Kansas, with her beloved husband of 44 years, Charles "Nick" Nicolay, by her side.

Karen was the youngest of two children born to Gilbert "Gib" Lilburn Thomas and Margaret Ellen (Yeager) Thomas. Her father owned a small-town hardware store and served as the Postmaster in Richland City, Indiana, while her mother was a dedicated schoolteacher. Growing up, Karen spent much of her time on the family homestead, often found riding horses or ponies. Her older brother, the late K. Neal (Betty) Thomas, lovingly tormented her as only a big brother could.

Karen attended Richland Grade School and Luce Township High School before earning her Bachelor of Science in Education from Evansville College. She followed in the footsteps of her mother and brother, dedicating her life to teaching. In 1967, her first marriage brought her to Topeka, Kansas, where she raised her children, Brad and Shawn. She later found her true love in Nick, and they were married on April 19, 1981.

Karen is survived by her devoted husband, Nick. As well as her sons, Brad (Cindy) Harrelson, Doug (Sandy) Nicolay, Richard (Chantel) Nicolay, and daughter Shawn Herrick; ten cherished grandchildren: Taylor (Jesse) Patterson and Rylee Harrelson; Jessica, Tara, and Erin Herrick; Jillian (Andy) Butkus, Kristi Goold, Scott Nicolay; Logan and Gabe Nicolay; six great-grandchildren: Lily, Landon, Ethan, Sydney, Grant, and Eddie Love.

Karen lived life with warmth, enthusiasm, and an open heart. She was known for her love of the color red, Western culture, and red roses. Her deep affection for horses and her beloved dog-kids too numerous to mention, brought her endless joy. Currently, Piper, is known by the whole retirement community and all who visit as her and Nick’s companion. She had a vibrant personality—bubbly, outgoing, thoughtful, and caring. Karen found beauty in music, particularly in Phantom of the Opera, Ava Maria, and Rhapsody in Blue, which reflected her spirit.

Her legacy of kindness, passion, and love will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

On her 45th wedding anniversary to Nick, A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church (PHUMC) on April 19th, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held at Parker Price Davidson Funeral Home in Topeka April 18th, 5:00 p.m – 6:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her honor to PHUMC. Karen’s memory will live on in the love she shared and the lives she touched. May she rest in peace.