Joanna Mae Rippe

Joanna Mae Rippe, 88 of Linn, Kansas, passed away on Friday, August 16,2024, at the Linn Community Nursing Home. 

Visitation will be held Friday, August 30 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Ward Funeral Home in Linn with the family receiving friends from 5 to 7 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m.. Saturday, August 31, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church in Linn. Rev. Timothy Koch will officiate.

She was born on November 3, 1935 in Beatrice, Nebraska, to William and Charlotte (Hawk) von Waaden. Joanna spent her formative years on the family farm north of Hanover, where she developed a deep-rooted appreciation for both agriculture and community service.

Her education began at Laverntz Grade School, where she spent six years before the school relocated, leading her to finish her studies at Gerardy for her last two years. In 1953, Joanna graduated from Hanover High School and furthered her education at Midland College in Fremont, Nebraska, for an additional two years. Following her academic pursuits, Jo dedicated a year to teaching at Lone Mound School, a testament to her commitment to education and the next generation.

On October 7, 1956, she united in marriage with Clarence Rippe at Zion Lutheran Church in Hanover. Together, they established their home and farmed northwest of Linn, where Clarence had been born and raised. Throughout her life, Joanna embraced her role not just as a farmer's wife but as a beloved and active member of her community.

Joanna was not only dedicated to her family and farm but also to the enrichment of her community through numerous endeavors. She served as a 4-H leader for many years, imparting her skills in sewing and photography to countless youths. Her commitment to education extended to the church, where she taught Sunday school, nurturing the spiritual growth of the children entrusted to her care. Joanna and Clarence were also engaged with the local Farm Bureau, leading initiatives and sharing their passion for farming, while Joanna took on the responsibility of publishing the county newsletter for several years.

In addition to her contributions to education and agriculture, Joanna served as a cemetery sexton at Zion for many years, reflecting her deep sense of community and care for those who had passed. She had a passion for collecting salt and pepper shakers, a hobby that brought her joy and connection with friends and fellow collectors.

A passionate advocate for local history, Joanna volunteered at the Washington County Historical Society since around 1979. She took immense pride in educating others about local history and genealogy, dedicating significant time and energy to completing the genealogy of her family tree, tracing many branches back hundreds of years.

Her family, friends, and all who knew her will remember Joanna for her unwavering spirit and the profound impact she made through her life's work.

Preceding her in death were her parents; husband, Clarence on August 4, 2005; and a brother in infancy, William von Waaden.

Survivors include her children, Eddie (Betty) Rippe, St. Augustine, FL, Jim Rippe, Peabody and Kathy (Alan) Richter, Barnes; sister, Judy Stamm, Anna, TX; brother-in-law, Dale Rippe, Linn; sister-in-law, Lydia Rippe, Chapman, NE; and grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A memorial fund is established to the Washington County Historical Society or KSDS. Contributions may be sent in care of Ward Funeral Home in Washington.