Died Tuesday June 16, 2015
at Dunklau Gardens in Fremont
JoAnn Lemons left us while sleeping peacefully Tuesday June 16, 2015 at Dunklau Gardens and joined her husband Roy, son Doug, brothers and parents. She was born April 19, 1932 in Concordia, KS. to Winston and Olive Rashleigh. The family moved to Missouri Valley, IA. and she graduated from High School in 1950. She continued her education at Clarkson School of Nursing, earning a RN degree in 1953. Upon finishing her education she married her best friend and love of her life in July 1953, and moved to Fremont. Nine months later, a family was born. Tom in 1954, Doug in 1956 and Bryan in 1960. Despite the challenges of raising 3 boys she had a wonderful life enjoying her exceptional talents of musical song and art, and giving care to others.
She and Roy joined the Methodist Church Choir in 1954 and faithfully continued until they were no longer able. She was also a charter member of Fremont PEO Chapter GH. She survived many obstacles including colon cancer, and the Hepatitis 'C' outbreak in Fremont, but was unable to completely survive the Pathfinder Hotel explosion in 1976 where she suffered multiple and severe skull fractures and traumatic brain trauma. The continued effect of those injuries ultimately led her to the area skilled care facilities.
As much as her husband tried, he was unable to accommodate her disabilities, but continued to love her and provide as much support as he was able until his death in January 2013. For 10 years she has lingered between this world and the next and we celebrate her journey to reunite with her husband, son, family and past friends.
We love you mom, Tom & Bryan
Survivors:
Sons Tom and fiancée Vicki Lemons of Elkhorn
Bryan Lemons of Maryville, MO
2 grandchildren Alisha and Nathan Claycamp of Liberty, MO
Casey Lemons of Maryville, MO
Sister-in-law Linda and Bill Hack of Logan, IA.
Brother-in-law Bill and Muriel Lemons of Harlan, IA
Sister-in-law Judy Michael of Humboldt, IA
The funeral will be 10am Saturday at the First United Methodist Church in Fremont. The Rev. Michael McGregor will officiate. Burial will follow in Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday from 9am until the service only at the church. Memorials are being accepted by the family to be given to the First United Methodist Church Choir in her honor. Ludvigsen Mortuary in Fremont is in charge of arrangements.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(5)
Jim Chrisman
Fremont, NE Saturday, June 20, 2015 I am truly sorry to hear of your loss, Tom. You and Vickie take care. Jim and Lori.Renee Collins Held
Columbus, NE Friday, June 19, 2015 Tom and Family, my mom and your mom were such great friends while living on Garfield street. I know they are having coffee and great discussions in heaven. Peace be with you in your time of grief.Renee
Julie hindmarsh
Vancouver, BC, NE Friday, June 19, 2015 Dear Tom,May God walk with you during this time of grief. Your mom was a special lady. Her musical talent lives on in you! Blessings, Julie
Dawn Landholm
Fremont, NE Friday, June 19, 2015 Dear Tom and FamilyWe are so sorry for your loss of your mother. We will miss her smile.Sincerely, Dawn Landholm,Teresa Andersen and Cindy Cook Bouslaugh,Dunkalu Gardens Resident Life Staff
Georganna Felt
Fremont, NE Thursday, June 18, 2015 I will miss JoAnn very much. She was my mentor at Head Start, as I took over her position as nurse there when she left in 1980. I remember her as a very kind and supportive person. She will be missed by all. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.