Dr. Kardatzke, or Dr. Jon, as he liked to be known, co-founded the Museum with his wife, Lorna Kardatzke in 2001. Originally named Museum of Ancient Treasures, the Museum was formerly located in the lower level of the Garvey Center in downtown Wichita. With the help of many other passionate collectors, the Museum quickly grew and two years later was moved to its current location and renamed Museum of World Treasures. Under the guidance of the nonprofit Museum's Board of Directors and staff, Museum of World Treasures has since welcomed over 750,000 visitors and has come to house nearly 9,000 artifacts from over 250 collectors.
Prior to co-founding Museum of World Treasures, Dr. Jon also co-founded West Wichita Family Physicians and practiced medicine for over thirty-five years.
While Dr. Jon has been unable to visit the Museum since 2014 due to declining health, his passion and childlike wonder continue to inspire the Museum’s mission “to provide a gateway to the past that educates, entertains, and inspires lifelong learning.” The Museum continues to honor Dr. Jon’s legacy through engaging exhibits, informative blogs, and inspiring educational programs.
Dr. Jon Kardatzke, passed away Friday morning. His memorial service of celebration will be Saturday, April 9 at 2:00 p.m. at Central Community Church at 6100 W Maple in Wichita. The family has set up memorials with Heart to Honduras and Museum of World Treasures.
Next weekend, Saturday, March 5 and Sunday, March 6, Museum of World Treasures will be offering free admission for those wishing to visit and pay their respects. An open house will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Museum of World Treasures on Sunday, March 6 for those who wish to gather and share memories.
Donations to the Museum are appreciated and will go directly to support Dr.
Jon’s vision of connecting people to history through fun and inspirational artifact-based learning experiences.
Additionally, the Museum will be displaying a temporary “Memory Wall” exhibit with printed photos and memories of Dr. Jon. Visitors are invited to bring their favorite Dr. Jon photos and memories to be displayed on this wall.