JoAnn Lois Rankin
May 05, 2016
JoAnn Lois Rankin (Wenzel), aged 75, passed peacefully on Thursday, May 5, 2016.
JoAnn was born October 11, 1940 in Dennison, Iowa, the daughter of Elmer and Ellen Wenzel. JoAnn grew up in Manilla, Iowa, and spent the last 55 years of her life in Des Moines. JoAnn was a dedicated mother, wife, sister and friend, who was known for her stubborn streak and wonderful sense of humor. She will be greatly missed by all that knew her and loved her. She was a valued employee of the Association & Legislation Resource for the past 34 years.
JoAnn was the wife of the late Carl R. Rankin, and devoted mother of Jeff Overholser, Mike Overholser, Rhonda Overholser, Laura Childs, Wendy (Jim) Frost, and Karla Rankin. She is also survived by her brother, Wayne Wenzel, 20 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, and her beloved cat "Little Man".
Services will be held at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 5626 Franklin Ave, Des Moines. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. prior to the service. A reception will follow at the church. A private family burial will be held at a later date.
Donations can be made to the American Cancer Association in JoAnn’s name in lieu of flowers. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Andrea Burrows
05/10/2016
Joann had such a great sense of humor. I can't think of her without smiling. She was such a good person. Cherish your memories until you meet again.
Gary Schmitt
05/09/2016
Jeff was one of my best friends growing up. Our families spent many vacations together in Spirit Lake, and many weekends at Grandview Little League. She was a great lady. Thoughts and prayers to all the family.
Nida Cline
05/08/2016
I never had the privilege of meeting JoAnn but I knew much about her from our mutual grandchildren, Melissa and Rachel Sexton, who will miss her greatly. God be with all her family in their sorrow.
Marilyn Kay Pedersen-Brandt
05/07/2016
JoAnn was a special friend of mine thru American Business Women's Association as well as Mount Olive Lutheran Church. She was a very special caring lady. My husband (now deceased) was head usher for some time at Mount Olive and JoAnn was his only female usher. She will be missed by so many. God be with all of you.