JoAnn McGhan Osage

OSAGE | JoAnn Marie McGhan, age 89, of Osage, died peacefully March 28, 2017, at Faith Lutheran Home in Osage, Iowa.

JoAnn was born on May 17, 1927, in Mitchell County, IA, to John A. Vance and Carrie Gravenor Vance. She graduated from Osage High School in 1944 and was accepted into the University of Iowa's nursing program; however, her dream to become a nurse was cut short when her mom became ill and she needed to return home. She worked as a switchboard operator for the Osage Telephone Co. until she found a job when visiting relatives in California. Although California appealed to her, she decided to return to Osage in the aftermath of the 1947 Black Dahlia murder that had everyone there on edge.

JoAnn married Virgil (Mike) McGhan Jr. on March 14, 1948. Mike loved farming and kids, so their family grew to include six children, as they farmed land south of Orchard. In 1967, they changed careers and become restaurateurs, purchasing Hill's Coffee Shop from Amy Hill. In 1970, they purchased and renovated the old Farmers National Bank building on the corner of Main and Seventh streets, and moved the restaurant to the site it occupied for more than 20 years. Eventually, 12 apartments were built above the restaurant in space previously occupied by bank offices and the Masonic Lodge. Mike passed away in 1991 and JoAnn retired in 1992, selling the building in 2000.

JoAnn and Mike were parents to: Vicki (Dennis) Pelleymounter, Boone, IA; Carol McGhan, West Branch, IA; Jill (Dean) Olson, Orchard, IA; Mike (Debbie) McGhan, Houston, TX; David McGhan (deceased), and Patricia (Bruce) Forshay, Osage, IA. In addition to her children, she is survived by 10 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her son David, parents, and brother William and his wife Clarice.

Throughout her life, JoAnn enjoyed music, especially singing and playing piano. She also enjoyed gardening, farming, bridge, 500 club, puzzles, crosswords, and was without doubt, an excellent cook and baker. She was an active member of the United Church of Christ, serving as the choir director, choir member and in the women's fellowship. She was also a lifelong member of the Order of the Eastern Star, serving as its organist for many years. At one point, she served as the president of the Osage Chamber of Commerce. JoAnn loved her family and friends, and will be greatly missed.

The family thanks the staff at both the Faith Home and Apple Valley Assisted Living facility for all their loving care during the time she was with them.

Cremation has taken place and the celebration of her life will be Friday, May 19, 2017, at the United Church of Christ in Osage. Burial will be at 3:30 p.m. at the Osage Cemetery and the celebration of life service will be at 5:30 p.m. Following the services, the family will greet family and friends and share a meal in the church hall.

Information available and condolences accepted at www.champion-bucheitfuneralhome.com.

Champion-Bucheit Funeral Home. 641-732-3706.