Jo Ann Schoenthaler, age 97, of Ellis, Kansas passed away Thursday, October 8, 2026 at Trego County Lemke Long Term Care in WaKeeney. She was born July 11, 1929 in Hays, Kansas to Rudolph and Martha (Kerth) Nelson.
Jo Ann graduated from Ellis High School in 1947. On October 19, 1948 she married Oscar C. Schoenthaler at Christ Lutheran Church. Oscar preceded her in death on November 27, 1982.
Jo Ann was a homemaker and active in her community. She served on the original Community Foundation of Ellis board. Church was an important part of Jo Ann’s life having been confirmed at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Ogallah and being a long-time member of Christ Lutheran Church. She served on church council, taught Sunday school, vacation Bible School and helped with many other church projects.
Survivors include sons, Doug Schoenthaler and wife Donna of Ellis, Art Schoenthaler and wife Sandy of Howe, Texas; daughters, Mary Jo Walz and husband John and Peggy Rupp and husband Troy all of Ellis; 11 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sons, Jim and infant son Mark; daughter, Donna Sue Scheele and an infant grandson, Tyler Scheele.
Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Saturday, October 10, 2026 at Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis. Burial will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Ellis. There will be no public visitation per Jo Ann's wishes.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to Christ Lutheran Church or the Community Foundation of Ellis-Food Pantry.
Services in care of Keithley Funeral Homes-Ellis Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS 67637. Memories may be shared on Jo Ann's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com