Carol L. Waddle

Carol L. Waddle, passed away on October 6, 2026, at The University of Kansas Health System Olathe Hospice House. She was born on August 3, 1945, in Douglas County, Missouri.

Carol was blessed to share many years of marriage with Edward E. Conklin, whom she married on December 9, 1963, in Miami, Oklahoma. Edward preceded her in death on October 10, 1993. On July 7, 1996, Carol found love again and married Eddie L. Waddle. They shared many cherished years together until his passing on December 22, 2017.

Before retiring on August 1, 2010, Carol built a life centered on caring for others, faith, and the simple joys that made a house feel like home. She attended Ava High School in Ava, Missouri, through the tenth grade. Over the years, she worked as a caregiver for the elderly, helping with errands, cleaning, and daily needs, and she also cleaned houses. In each role, she gave practical help and steady kindness.

For forty-eight years, Carol made her home in Homewood after moving there from Kansas City, Missouri, in 1978. She was a member of Homewood Christian Church for several years. She loved fresh flowers and found enjoyment in word search books and puzzles. She also liked watching Wheel of Fortune, The Andy Griffin Show, and Survivor. Some of her happiest times were spent road traveling with her husband, Ed, visiting Branson, Missouri, surrounding states, and Maine.

Carol will be especially remembered for the warmth she shared so freely with everyone who crossed her threshold. No one left her house without a hug and a picture being taken, whether family or friend. She became known affectionately as “the hugger,” and that spirit of welcome and affection will remain one of the lasting memories of her life.

She is survived by her sons Clifford Conklin, Clayton Conklin, Christopher Conklin, Curtis Conklin, and Corey Conklin; sister Sharon Wise; seven grandchildren; and many great grandchildren; along with several uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins. The love of her family was an important part of her life, and her memory will continue in the lives of those who knew her best and loved her deeply.

Carol was preceded in death by her first husband Edward E. Conklin; second husband Eddie Waddle; her parents, Arvel James Peak and Lily Lena Peak; her grandparents, Otto and Louisa (Manning) Peak and Asa and Flora (Coy) Holman; and her brothers, Wayne Peak, Carl Peak, and Larry Peak.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on October 12, 2026, at Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S Hickory St, Ottawa, Kansas. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on October 13, 2026, at Antioch Cemetery, 2125 Indiana Road, Ottawa, Kansas.

Carol will be remembered for her caring heart, her faithful presence, her love of family, and the hugs that made people feel at home.

To share your memories of Carol or to send a special condolence message to her family, please visit the guestbook below.