Dana J. Wiegand

Dana J. Wiegand, 54, a beautiful soul whose life's work touched countless hearts and minds, passed away on May 19, 2026, at the University of Kansas Medical Center after a brave four-year battle with breast cancer that metastasized to her bones and liver.

Born on May 1, 1972, in Robbinsdale, MN, Dana was a woman of strength, resilience, and an unyielding spirit that resonated deeply with all who knew her.

She earned her Master of Social Work from Washburn University, Dana’s commitment to helping others was evident throughout her remarkable career. She dedicated more than 20 years as a Social Worker with Geary County USD 475 and served as a Behavior Support Intervention Specialist at Junction City High School. Her professional journey was marked by a passion for advocacy and compassion. Beyond her day-to-day endeavors, Dana was a member of Optimist International and the American Legion, and she took leadership roles as President of the Junction City Education Association (JCEA) and as a representative on the Konza UniServ Board. Her tenacity and devotion left an indelible mark on her community and colleagues alike.

A proud veteran, Dana proudly served her country with honor in both the United States National Guard and the United States Army. She completed seven years of service and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. This chapter of her life exemplified the courage and dedication for her country and her community.

Dana’s presence radiated warmth and joy. Those who were lucky enough to know her recall her infectious smile - one that had a unique way of bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging. Her laugh, often described as the best, could light up a room, making everyone around her feel special and important. Yet more than anything, Dana was a beautiful soul whose strength and resilience were and will continue to be a source of inspiration. She loved her Kansas State Wildcats with fervor, finding joy in the lively spirit of her beloved team.

Dana is lovingly remembered by her husband, Jim Wiegand of the home; her son, Ashton (Kayleigh Franklin) of Lee Summit, MO; and her daughter, Tara (Caleb) Kern of Fort Campbell, KY, her parents, Roger and Jan (Johnson) Ekert of Kingston, MN; her siblings, Pamela Krill of Blue Earth, MN; Carrie Haakenson (Justin) of Rochester, MN; and Joe (April) Ekert of South Haven, MN. She adored her nieces and nephews-Donovan Krill, Sofia, Henry and Stella Haakenson, Lily, Ava, and Nora Ekert-and she delighted in her grandchild, Logan Kern. Dana’s extended family includes her father-in-law, Alan Wiegand of Benton, IL; her aunt-in-law, Mary Ann Hickman of Valier, IL; and her brother-in-law, Robbie (Lisa) Wiegand of KY. She was preceded in death by her paternal and maternal grandparents.

A Celebration of Life for Dana will be Monday, June 15, 2026, from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the Elk's Lodge, 723 S. Washington Street, Junction City, KS 66441. Cremation has taken place and a private family inurnment with military honors will be held. The family has designated memorial contributions to the Geary Community Schools Foundation, (with Dana Wiegand Memorial Scholarship in the memo line) 920 W. 6th Street, Junction City, KS 66441, Attn: Jade White.

Dana’s journey in this world may have ended, but the love she shared and the many lives she touched remain enduring legacies of the woman who made everyone she encountered feel truly seen and cherished. With profound sadness but immense gratitude for a life so beautifully lived, her family will hold onto the light she gave them.