Erna Elaine Goossen

Erna Elaine Goossen, 68, passed away on August 26, 2026, at 3:40 pm at Norton County Hospital, Norton, KS. She was born in Oakley, KS on May 28, 1958. Her parents were Cornelius D. and Hulda (Franz) Goossen. She was the youngest of eight siblings in her family.

Erna was nonverbal and had profound disabilities. At age 8, in February 1966, she was placed in Winfield State Hospital. It was at Winfield State Hospital that Erna learned to walk at age 10. On September 22, 1988, Erna was moved to a group home in Norton, KS, under the supervision and care of Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, where she remained until her passing.

Erna was preceded in death by her parents; sisters-in-law, Sheryl Goossen and Carolyn Goossen; brothers-in-law Kevin Wiebe and Bernie Vacura and nephew Scott Goossen.

She is survived by her brothers, Vernon (Linda) Goossen, Amarillo, TX, Simon Goossen, Brighton, CO, Andrew Goossen, Pryor, OK, Harold (Priscilla) Goossen, Lincoln, NE and Tim (Micki) Goossen, Brewster, KS; sisters, Othelia (Wayne) Funk, Oberlin, KS and Arleta Wiebe, Elbing, KS; several nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews; numerous cousins, extended family and other loved ones.

In spite of her severe disabilities, Erna was able to express her recognition and appreciation to those who cared for her.

The family would like to thank everyone at DSNWK in Norton, KS for their faithfulness in providing excellent care for Erna, and especially for helping Erna’s family through this time of need.

A graveside service will take place at 1:30 pm Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Beulah Cemetery, Colby. Memories will be shared at a funeral dinner following at the Gathering Place, Colby. Memorials may be made to DSNWK in honor of Erna and sent directly to DSNWK at PO Box 9, Norton, KS 67654. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com