After giving it all she had in a fight with cancer, Elizabeth “Beth” R. Whisler, age 71, passed away on Saturday, July 20, 2024 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. She was born on March 5, 1953, in Concordia, KS to R. Wilson & Ruth C. (Nelson) Carlgren.
She graduated from Concordia High School in 1971 and earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and allied health from the University of Northern Colorado in 1975. She also earned her master’s degree in psychology from the University of Northern Colorado and completed her coursework to earn her PhD in psychology from the University of Colorado. She taught and counseled in Colorado until her mother became ill and she returned to Concordia. Upon the passing of her mother, she then operated the A.A Wilson Furniture Store from 1991 until she closed the store in 1999. After closing the store, Beth returned to the classroom and taught psychology and education courses at Cloud County Community College until her retirement in 2023. During her tenure at Cloud County, she took on many roles. Towards the end of her career, she was the faculty sponsor for the international student organization, and Title 9 Coordinator, as well as regularly teaching an overload schedule. She was a fixture for many students over her 24 years, as well as a friend and confidant to many faculty and staff at the College.
Beth was passionate about helping people, and always had a positive attitude, even while she was in pain. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Concordia, Delta Kappa Gamma, the international society for women educators, the American Psychological Association and P.E.O. Chapter in Concordia. In her previous career as a business owner, she also was a member of Rotary and the Concordia Chamber of Commerce, a board member of Kansas Wesleyan University, Pawnee Mental Health, and the Cloud County Community College Foundation. She enjoyed music, travel, and the peace of her cabin south of Lovewell Reservoir, among other things.
She married Mark Whisler on June 18, 2005.
She is survived by her husband, Mark Whisler, Concordia, KS and many cousins and other extended family, friends and students.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilson & Ruth Carlgren.
Visitation will be held from 1-8 pm, Monday, August 26, 2024 with the family greeting friends from 6-7 pm all at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia.
Cremation has taken place, and a Memorial Service will be held 11:00 am, Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at Cloud County Community College in the Arley Bryant Gymnasium with Pastor Mark Crist officiating. Burial will follow the services at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Concordia, KS.
Memorial Contributions may be given to the Cloud County Community College Foundation to help fund a new scholarship in her name. For online condolences, please visit www.chaputbuoy.com.
