William “Bill” Jay Karns, 81, of Holton, KS passed away Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Holton Community Hospital in Holton, with family by his side. He was born January 17, 1942 in Holton, the son of Neil Spencer and Ruth (Coverdale) Karns.

Bill attended Ontario Country School, and later graduated from Circleville High School in 1960. He attended VoTech in Topeka earning a certificate in Carpentry. Bill worked in the woodworking trade throughout his life. He worked for Whelan- Inc for many years in Topeka. He worked for T&K also known as Midwest Mills, Dillon Custom Kitchens, and most recently Eubanks’ Custom Woodworks in Holton. Bill specialized in building and installing cabinetry and countertops. He was a skilled craftsman who was considered by many as a Master Carpenter. He was meticulous in his work, leaving all jobsites cleaner than when he arrived.

He was a faithful member of Evangel Church in Holton, always willing to lend a helping hand. Bill was a member of Circleville Masonic Lodge. He was a member of both for over 50 years.

Bill married Gale E. Slimmer on April 10, 1965, they later divorced. To this union they welcomed a son, Philip N. Karns (Tina) of Auburn, KS. He married Sharon Ann Wagenblast on July 17, 1976 at Evangel Church in Holton; they celebrated over 46 years of marriage. She survives of the home. Other survivors include two daughters, Sarah A. Karns of Topeka, KS, and Carrie L Wise (Brian) of Topeka, KS; two grandchildren, Rebecca M Bowen (Jace) of Frankfort, KS, and Daniel W. Karns of Auburn, KS; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Neil S. and Ruth Karns; a brother, Dale E. Karns, and a sister, Judy K. Almond.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 1, 2023 at Evangel Church in Holton. Burial will follow at Holton Cemetery. The church will be Livestreaming the service. Visitation will be 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Friday evening at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Bill will lie in state Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. until visitation time. Memorials may be given to Evangel Church or KU Alzheimer- Disease Center c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com