Connie Lee Lakin (Schalk), age 76, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, at Tiffany Springs Rehabilitation Center in Kansas City, Missouri.
Born on November 20, 1948, Connie grew up on her beloved family farm in Lenexa, Kansas. She was the daughter of the late August and Veronica “Bill” Schalk (Barthol). Her upbringing on the farm instilled in her a lifelong love of nature, hard work, and family.
Connie made her home in the Kansas City Northland, where she lived for over 50 years. It was there that she raised her two children and created a warm, loving environment filled with laughter, support, and the values she held dear.
She dedicated 28 years of hard work as an associate warehouse worker at the Sony Parts Center, where she built lasting friendships and a strong work ethic.
Connie had a deep appreciation for the outdoors—finding peace in camping, the beauty of nature, and especially fishing. One of her greatest joys was spending time on the water in her prized bass boat. She shared her love of fishing with her son Alan and found immense happiness traveling and going on cruises with her daughter Lee.
She was a devoted grandmother who took great pride in supporting her grandchildren throughout the years. She rarely missed a game or event, cheering them on at countless sporting activities with unwavering love and enthusiasm.
Connie deeply loved her extended family and found great joy in the annual Barthol family picnic—a cherished tradition that brought generations together. These gatherings were among her favorite times, where she could reconnect, laugh, and share stories with those she loved.
She is survived by her loving children, Lee Dittmer (Jeff) and Alan Graves (Sarah); grandchildren Conner Dittmer (Rachel), Ashton Dittmer, Lillian Graves, and Bradley Graves; and her two great-granddaughters, Lennon and Logan. She also leaves behind her brother Gerald Schalk, nephew Travis Schalk (Amber), niece Beth Hamilton (Jamie), along with several great-nieces and nephews.
Connie’s warmth, humor, and deep love for her family and nature will be dearly missed. Her legacy lives on in the many memories shared by those who loved her.
Memorial services will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church, located at 919 NE 96th Street, Kansas City, MO 64155. Visitation will take place Tuesday July 1st at 5:30-7:00pm. The Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, July 2 at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral dinner. The family will then proceed to Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa for the burial service.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in Connie’s honor to the Parkville Nature Sanctuary or to a local spay and neuter organization, both causes that reflect her love for animals and the outdoors.
Please help celebrate the life of Connie by sharing a memory or expressing your condolences to the family.
