JoAnn Benson

JoAnn Benson passed away at Swedish American Hospital on September 24, 2017 after fighting a tremendous battle against her illness. On April 15, 1967 she married John (Jack) Benson and raised four great children. Jack and JoAnn just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

JoAnn Benson was born August 29, 1946, in Rockford, IL. JoAnn loved being a grandmother to her four beautiful grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, sailboats and she always loved finding a great bargain! She loved daytrips and had wanderlust for places she’d heard of but never traveled to, so she was always on the lookout for new places to visit.

She was an avid volunteer throughout her life. From her most recent position as a reading volunteer with grade school children to being a gardening volunteer at church, JoAnn was always sharing her time and her expertise with others.

The toughest, yet most rewarding job that many people ever have is that of “Mom”. This was especially true for JoAnn. She worked tirelessly for years on behalf of her youngest son, Kent, who fought numerous health battles from the day he was born, until the day he died 9 years ago at the tender age of 28. Long before the Internet, JoAnn navigated the health care system like a warrior on Kent’s behalf. She was Kent’s number one advocate. We are so proud of her and so inspired by her strength, determination and perseverance.

JoAnn is survived by her loving husband Jack Benson; daughter: Karen Jonnard of Boise, ID; son: Craig and daughter-in-law Katie Benson of Chicago, IL and their children: Morgan, Brooke and Connor; son: Kirk and daughter-in-law Sarah Benson of Mt. Prospect, IL and their son Tommy; brother: Bob Tiehen of Ypsilanti, MI.

Preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Mary Tiehen; son, Kent Benson; and son-in-law, Bill Jonnard.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017 in Holy Family Church, 4401 Highcrest Rd., Rockford, IL. Visitation Friday, Sept. 29, 2017 from 5 - 7:30 p.m. in Sundberg Funeral Home, Ltd., 215 N. Sixth St., Rockford, IL. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in JoAnn’s honor to Swedish American Foundation (hospital) or Holy Family Church. Online condolences may be left at sundbergfh.com.

5:00-7:30 p.m., Friday, September 29, 2017 in Sundberg Funeral Home, Ltd.

10:30 a.m., Saturday, September 30, 2017 in Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Rd., Rockford,

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