JOANNA Z. GRAFF

JoAnna (Ziegenbusch) Graff, of Olathe, KS, passed away on September 15th, 2016, at the age of 81, after a courageous battle with a lengthy illness. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, John V. Graff and their children; Kris (Mike) Gruenebaum, John "Tim" Graff, Meg Gerdes, William Graff, and Susan Baer. "JoJo" delighted in her 7 grandchildren; Ben (Morgan) Gruenebaum, Andy (Lacey) Gruenebaum, Alex and Connor Gerdes, Michael Baer, Rachel and Nicholas Graff, as well as one great-grandchild, Gibson Gruenebaum. She was pre-deceased by her sisters, Mary Kathryn Ziegenbusch and Phyllis Knott. JoJo was born on September 24th, 1934, in Buckland, OH, to William and Delzada (Wheeler) Ziegenbusch, and was the youngest of the 3 daughters. She graduated from Lima Memorial School of Nursing in 1955.

JoJo worked full time as a dedicated Registered Nurse while raising their children. She was an accomplished cook and baker, was passionate about Ohio State Football, was an avid reader, and more than anything, she adored little children. She possessed a wonderful sense of humor, she was curious and intelligent, and she was blessed with the love of many, many friends. Her entire life was a lesson in selflessness and the care of others.

Memorial services, celebrating her life, will be held in both Kansas City and her beloved Buckland, OH. A celebration in honor of JoJo's life will be held Sunday, September 18th from 1pm-4pm, at the Gruenebaum residence in Lenexa before returning her to her hometown in Buckland, OH. Memorial services, celebrating her life, will be held on her birthday September 24th, 2016 at the Buckland United Church of Christ at 10:30am, with graveside services to follow at the Buckland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Lima Memorial Nursing School Alumni Assoc. c/o Ruby Kraher; 121 Yorkshire Circle, Lima, Ohio 45804.

Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Raymore, MO (816)322-5278