John Elmer Ankenman, Norton County
March 8, 1936 - September 23, 2023
John E. Ankenman, 87, of Norton County, passed away September 23, 2023 at the Decatur Health Systems Hospital in Oberlin. He was born March 8, 1936 in Norton County, KS to Galen and Jennie (Kintigh) Ankenman.
John attended rural schools and graduated 8th grade from Lonehand Country School and in 1954 he graduated from Norton Community High School.
John married JoAnn Burd on September 25, 1955, at the Methodist Church in Norton.
Farming was not just an occupation for John; it was a passion that he took pride in. He also raised cattle and hogs and grew grain crops. When he wasn’t working hard on the farm, he loved spending time with his family. John loved family reunions and it was even better when there was homemade ice cream for everyone to enjoy. John was a life-long member of the Maple Grove Church of the Brethren.
John is survived by his wife of 67 years, JoAnn of the home; children Kathie (Ralph) Hildebrand of Lenora, KS, Karen (Mike) Rahe of Dewitt, NE, Janet Ankenman (Ed Meitl) of Oberlin, KS, and Johnny Ankenman of Norcatur, KS; grandchildren Galen Hildebrand, Donald (Kelsee) Hildebrand, Sarah (Jason) Geerdes, Kayla (Josh) McDougall, Nikki (Jared) Stoner, Amy (Jon) Schroeder, Carly (Hunter) Oliver, Ariana Richmeier, Clay McMullen, and Rylee Ankenman; 13 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents Galen and Jennie Ankenman and sister Evelyn Young.
Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 29, 2023 at the funeral home in Norton. Burial will follow in the Norton Cemetery. Visitation with the family present will be from 5-7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 28, 2023 at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Farm Rescue or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and may be sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS 67654.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.plumergobber.com
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