Joan Elmborg

Joan Elmborg of Topeka passed away October 5, at Midland Hospice in Topeka. She was 87. She was born June 29, 1923, in Marquette, Kansas, the second child of Waldo and Uarda (Baird) Thompson. Her older sister, Charlotte Ruth, preceded her in death. She grew up in Marquette and attended Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kansas before graduating from Kansas State University. While at Bethany, she met her future husband, James D. Elmborg. They were married August 5, 1950. They lived in Salina, Kansas until 1960 when they moved to Topeka, where they spent the rest of their lives. He died in 2006. Joan was employed for many years by the Topeka Public Schools. She taught home-bound students and was lead teacher at Teen Aid School, where she was devoted to helping girls get through rough stretches in their schooling. She retired in 1984. She enjoyed flea markets, where she would find unique and sometimes strange gifts for family and friends. She loved the outdoors, especially Kansas sunflowers. She loved her dog, Cookie. She collected cookbooks and loved cooking family meals. Mostly, she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Joan is survived by her children: Jim (Ann) Elmborg of Iowa City, Iowa, Ann Semler of Auburn, Kansas, Susan Elmborg of Topeka and Ruth (Butch) Pile of Topeka and grandchildren, Paul, Elliot and Drew Semler of Auburn and Joe McClasky of Topeka. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, October 9, at Southern Hills Mennonite Church, 511 E. 37th Street, 66605 in Topeka. Memorial contributions can be made to Helping Hands Humane Society in Topeka. Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel is handling arrangements. To leave the family a special message, visit www.PenwellGabelTopeka.com.