Dana Aitken

Dana Marjorie (Rader) Aitken entered God's eternal home on Thursday, December 29, 2022 in Overland Park, KS.

Dana was born October 29, 1932 in Independence, KS to Edward and Marjorie (Young) Rader. She grew up in Independence, graduating from Independence High School in 1950. She completed her associate's degree at Independence Community College and attended Pittsburg State University. Dana married Donald Aitken on December 30, 1951 at the First United Methodist Church of Independence. They would have celebrated 71 years of marriage the day after her passing.

Dana was a lifetime member of the First United Methodist Church and a faith-filled servant of Christ. She served the church in countless ways, most notably as Director of Music Ministries, the director of the Chancel Choir and the children's Angel Choir, vocalist, and accompanist. Dana shared her gift of music throughout her life, singing solos for community events, weddings, and funerals, participating in numerous Neewollah productions, accompanying the Independence High School Concert Choir and Indy Ensemble, mentoring aspiring musicians, and sharing her enthusiasm in ways that inspired others to appreciate music.

Dana was a member of P.E.O. (Chapter FP), UMW's Circle, Monday Music Club, and the Independence Historical Museum. She also served as a board member of the Independence Area Children's Choir and the Community Concert Association.

Dana is survived by her husband, Don; three children, Doug, Phil (Sara), and Cheryl (Ted); six grandchildren, Spencer and Trevor Aitken, Erin (Michael) Brearley and Brian (Hannah, fiancé) Aitken, Caitlin (Jeff) Neneman, and Meggie (Richard) Olalde; and four great-grandchildren, Eleanor and Adelaide Brearley and Elise and Wesley Neneman.

Dana will always be remembered for her infectious smile, genuine kindness to all, and joyful spirit. Her love of faith, family, and friends will forever live in our hearts.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 200 S Pennsylvania Ave, Independence, KS 67301, preceded by a private family graveside service at Mount Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dana's name may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Independence.