Kari B. Draeger

Kari B. Draeger (aka Granny Kat), 67, of Medford, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at her home. A memorial service for Kari will take place at 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Holway with Barb Krug, SAM officiating. Visitation will take place at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 from 12 p.m. until the time of service at 2 p.m. There will be a meal held at the church after the service.

Kari was born on Feb. 27, 1959, in Medford, to Arthur and Harriet (Berry) Vircks. She married Harvey Draeger Jr. (aka Junior) on Feb. 20, 1978, at Zion Lutheran Church in Stetsonville. Harvey preceded her in death in 2006.

Kari worked as a receptionist at Maple Island for

1959-2026

more than 30 years before retiring. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, gardening, playing softball, playing volleyball, shooting pool, bowling, and spending time with the people and pets she loved. Kari especially cherished time with her family and friends, and her grandchildren held a special place in her heart.

Kari is survived by her daughters, Holly Draeger and Rachel (Tyler) Hoefs, both of Medford; grandchildren, Sammie Lu Draeger-Untiedt, Scott (Tyra Cynor) Johnson, and honorary granddaughter, Sahara (Timmy O’Connell) Bollard. She is further survived by her siblings, Karlene Langer, Boyd (Dianne) Vircks, Kaye (Mike) Gerber, and Berle (Sylvia) Vircks; and many nieces; nephews; and other family and friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, Kari was preceded in death by her siblings, Barton and Brian Vircks and Kristen Brunner; and parents-in-law, Harvey Draeger Sr. and Lucille Draeger.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family.

Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online.

Paid Obituary 188814