Joann M. Kenealy

1932 - 2026

Joann M. Kenealy

December 15, 1932 - January 1, 2026

Joann M. Kenealy, age 93, of Council Bluffs, formerly of Minden, IA, passed away January 1, 2026, at her home. Joann was born December 15, 1932, in Neola, IA, to the late Joseph and Mary (Bentlage) Berens. She graduated from St. Joseph High School, Neola, IA in 1950. Joann married Leo Kenealy on October 16, 1954, in Neola. They were blessed with six children, Kris, Kathy, Dennis, twins, Pat and Mike, and Susan. Joann worked at World Insurance before her marriage. Joann and her husband Leo farmed from 1954-1970, they also owned and operated Minden Bowl and Café and Four-Star Seed Co. She was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Neola. In addition to her parents, Joann was preceded in death by her husband, Leo Kenealy in 2019; son-in-law, Jack Stamp; sister, Dolores (Con) Fischer; brothers, George (Betty) Berens, Bob (Betty Lou) Berens, and Jim (Dorothy) Berens. Joann is survived by her children, Kris Stamp of Persia, IA, Kathy Kenealy of Omaha, NE, Dennis (Jeanette) Kenealy of Logan, IA, twins, Pat (Shari) Kenealy of Omaha, Mike (Susan) Kenealy of Missouri Valley, IA, Susan (Mike) Vandermuss of Tucson, AZ; 8 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren,1 great-great grandchild; sisters-in-law, Joanne Kenealy and Pat Kenealy; nieces and nephews.

Memorial Mass, Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Neola. A luncheon will immediately follow in the parish hall. Visitation with the family, Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. with a rosary service beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Private family burial in St. Patrick's Cemetery. The family will direct memorial contributions. Special Thanks to Bethany Heights and Hillcrest Hospice for the wonderful care given to our mother.