Jean Beenken

1930 - 2025

Jean Audrey Beenken (Koestler), 95, of Buckingham, IA finished her earthly work and went home to be with God on September 23, 2025. Born on August 27, 1930, in Ledyard, IA, Jean grew up on a farm with her parents Everyl and Bernice Koestler and nine brothers and sisters. Jean graduated from Ledyard High School and Waldorf College prior to moving to the Buckingham area where she married Orville Beenken on February 8, 1952. Orville and Jean were married for 67 years prior to Orville's passing in 2019 spending almost their entire lives in the Buckingham area. Jean was a beloved teacher in the area for 34 years prior to retiring in 1986 to enjoy her most important roles as a devoted Wife, Mom, Grandma, friend and servant to many. In addition to her family, Jean was a faithful servant of God and her country, serving for many years as a member of Geneseo United Methodist Church and the Traer American Legion Auxiliary. In addition to her family and service to God and country, Jean loved her flowers and enjoyed gardening, baking, fishing, playing cards, watching basketball and reading, especially with her grandchildren.

Jean is survived by her son, Galen Orville and daughter-in-law Kylie Beenken and grandchildren Noah and Brooklyn. A memorial service for Jean will be held on October 16th at The Geneseo United Methodist, 3127 115th Street, Buckingham, IA 50612 with coffee and fellowship beginning at 10:00 a.m., a Celebration of Life beginning at 11:00 a.m. and a private family burial to follow. Flowers and/or donations in Jean's memory may also be sent to Geneseo United Methodist Church.