JoAnn Kranz Benteman age 87 of Topeka, KS passed on January 5, 2023 from an emotionally draining disease known as the “long goodbye”, Alzheimer’s. JoAnn was born in Hays, Kansas on July 10, 1935 to Oscar Kranz and Clydene Hiltabidle Kranz.

JoAnn met her husband Lee on a blind date set up by her college friends. Lee and JoAnn were married 65 years. JoAnn and Lee shared the same birthday, only five years apart.

JoAnn taught Home Economics for the Seaman School District and also worked for the State of Kansas. JoAnn and Lee were members of a square dance and camping club.

She loved to take bus trips, travel with friends and family, and cook for others.

Survivors include son, James (Lisa) Benteman; daughter, Leann (Brett) Dexter; grandchildren, Keaton Dexter and Dale (Ashley) Dexter; great-grandchildren, Lucia Lee and Nanette Sophie Dexter; sister, Kay (Gale) Squier and her four legged friend Buddy.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband Lee and her parents Oscar and Clydene Kranz.

The family will greet friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 9, 2023 at Mount Hope Cemetery & Funeral Chapel 4700 SW 17th Street Topeka, KS 66604. Funeral Service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at Mount Hope Cemetery in the chapel. Burial will be at Vansburgh Cemetery in Brownell, KS.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ascend 4550 W. 109th Street Suite 210, Shawnee Mission, KS 66211 or to Alzheimer's Association 3625 SW 29th St. Suite 102, Topeka, KS 66614.

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