Jo Ann Clark
November 1, 1946 ~ October 17, 2020
Jo Ann Clark, 73, of Mount Vernon, left us too soon, but took her journey to greater places on Saturday, October 17, 2020.
Jo was born on November 1, 1946, to Howard and Elizabeth 'Lizzie' (Wolfe) Kroul in Iowa City. She grew up on the family farm near Ivanhoe and the Cedar River, but even the Iowa farmer's daughter found her ski hill up the road at Dr. Rahn's Ski Pal where she worked in the winter and developed a lifelong passion of finding new adventures.
Jo graduated from Mount Vernon High School in 1964. Then, after graduating from the St. Luke's School of Nursing in 1967, she married her Navy man, Keith Clark, also of Mount Vernon. Their small, quiet wedding didn't stay that way long when they got 'charivaried', resulting in a surprise wedding dance with 600-700 guests. Having their grand exit from Cornell's Allee Chapel in a manure spreader for a get-away car, there was no way to go but up for Jo and Keith. Together they created their home near the Kroul family farm.
Jo is survived by her husband of 53 years, Keith; two daughters, Jennifer Clark of North Liberty and Kathy (Kris) Kron of Longmont, Colorado; three granddaughters, Olivia Gonzalez and Caroline and Clara Kron; her mother, Elizabeth 'Lizzie' Kroul of Mount Vernon, whom she devoted her life to caring for; sister, Rebecca Donovan of Solon; brothers, John (Kaylene) Kroul of Mount Vernon and Tom (Emmie) Kroul of Solon. She was preceded in death by her father, Howard Kroul; and beloved sister and partner in crime, Mary Cerise Anderson.
Jo's professional life was spent devoted to a 46 year career in nursing, which included time at the St. Luke's Emergency Room, Anamosa school nurse, St. Luke's OB and Family Planning Clinic, University of Iowa PACU, and as a University of Iowa's first PET research nurse. She received her BSN in 1999 from Iowa Wesleyan College and was a Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse. Jo's knowledge of her field was honored by being invited to speak at National Conferences allowing her to travel to Washington DC, Phoenix, Seattle, Toronto, and Dartmouth College, New Hampshire.
Jo spent her life learning, teaching, traveling, and exploring the finer things in life. Her love of the arts was evident in her timeless style and beauty. Jo was continuously active socially and spent many years planning class reunions, being a 4-H leader and teaching Sunday confirmation classes for her girls, and more recently enjoyed gatherings with her Fuel Coffee Group, Entry Nous Book Club, New Century Club, and the Sisterhood of the Traveling Paddlers. In addition to it all, Jo was grounded in her love of the natural world and found serenity in tending to her flower gardens, cooking homemade delicious food, reading, and being the curator of her family history.
Jo was so many things, but most important to her was being a devoted friend, daughter, sister, wife, niece, mother and grandmother. She cherished creating memories through experiences with her beloved family. She loved attending her granddaughters' music performances and sporting events, as well as spending time with them pursuing special experiences with Grandma. She cared deeply about spending quality time with all of the people in her life and was always up for a card game, a glass of wine, or just a visit, as long as she was allowed to skip the small talk. If we learn anything from having had the privilege of knowing Jo, it is how she could see the light in others and would treat them as if it was all she could see. Her beauty will be missed by so many.
Jo loved her flowers, however donations may also be made to the family to be used for local organizations in honor of Jo.
Jo is being honored and remembered with a small, private family gathering at this time. Due to Covid-19, a celebration of life will take place at a later date to include those who were touched by Jo. The family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone's thoughtful words and kind understanding during this difficult time. Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Mount Vernon, is caring for Jo and her family.
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We first met Jo seated around her dining room table and from that moment on we knew our son Kris would having an amazing mother in law. She had invited us to their home…parents meet parents. She put us at ease right away, (wine helps)Jerry and I both enjoyed that evening very much. We shared a wedding, a loss of a grandchild and 2 amazing granddaughters and I will be forever grateful for knowing Jo. Caroline, Clara Jo and Olivia, I hope each one of you will carryon her sense of adventure, her kindness and her love of family. Our sympathies to you Keith, Jen, Kathy, Kris and Grandma Lizzie.
Jo was the PACU nurse manager many years ago where we became friends. Fortunately for me we have remained friends and saw one another off and on over the years. We shared many work memories about the old PACU and the awesome people who worked there. She was an amazing women and I am grateful to call her friend!
So Sorry to here this news, My thoughts and Prayers to the Family.
So sorry to hear this sad news. Jo will certainly be remembered fondly. Wishing happy memories, peace and healing grace for her family. Ed Fordyce
Many people walk in and out of your life, but only true friends leave footprints on your heart. Eleanor Roosevelt Jo was one of my footprints and one of my most treasured friends. I first worked with Jo in the Emergency Department, at St Luke’s, Cedar Rapids. What exciting and challenging times. Then again at the University of Iowa Hospitals. Jo was a dedicated and stellar nurse. Jo and I became close friends and shared some wonderful adventures and fun times throughout the years. Most of all we laughed together … during out golf games, at parties, at lunches and during travels. Jo, you will always be in my thoughts. Rest In Peace. Pictures are of our River Cruise in France. Jo, Sharon, Carolyn Monet Garden, Normandy Beach, Paris Nights and Days
With deepest sympathy,
Jo was elegant and I will miss her grace, style and wit. She had a wicked wit! We both worked at UIHC and she was the one who encouraged me to join Entres Nous Book Club. I will miss you Jo. Dixie Collins
My friendship with Jo started way back in the 60’s when she came to E.R. @ St. Luke’s for her “Senior Experience”. The fun began then and has continued lo these many years. We both ended up @ the Univ. until our respected retirements. The fun never stopped!!! Our memories will stay with me forever! Sharon Johnson
So sorry to hear this. The world lost a good one.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you Lizzie and Jen and your families. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Keith, I feel deeply for your loss. I am shocked. Jo and you were a favorite couple for Wendee and I. Seeing Jo on many of Wendee and my excursions to craft shows and other open events would lighten our days. She was a wonderful woman who brought out “down home” — to the core — smiles in both of us. I so enjoyed working with her and you for all your remodels. Jo made such a solid impression on me.
I’m so sorry to hear this news. I met Jo thru my husband who works in Nuc Med at UIHC. She was such a bubbly and wonderful person. Deepest condolences to Jo’s family from our family.
My Grandmother was an educator, advocate, and fighter for what she believed in. Through her I’ve learned many life lessons that I will carry with me throughout my life and I will pass onto my future children’s lives. She was the strongest most elegant person I knew, and that is how she left us strong and elegant. Do not be too sad for she is free to do what she truly loved now, travel. Safe Travels Grandma, Olivia
What a beautiful tribute, Olivia, I loved traveling with your grandma!
Though I’ve not seen Jo for years after she left Anamosa, she left a lasting memory of her caring and class. Condolences to Jo’s family. I know she has left a large void. Sincerely, Nancy Kula AHS 1980-2018
I was a counselor at Anamosa High School when Jo was there. She was so competent and enjoyable to have as a colleague. I will miss seeing and talking to her from time to time. Rest In Peace lovely Jo.
A bright , intelligent person who made her way through the world with grace and humor. A good neighbor.
Being gone from My Vernon since I graduated with Jo in 1964, the only contact I had with her was at class reunions. BUT, each of those times, it was like 1964 again…her warmth and caring never wained from every 5 year separation. I’ll never forget when she called me right before our last reunion after she learned I might not make it because my daughter, Jenny, was closed to having her first baby at age 42. She knew this was an IVF baby, and her concern was and with that positivity, very much appreciated. I did make it to the reunion, and when she first saw me she ran up to hug me and tell me how glad she was that all was well enough to come. That was Jo…I’m still in shock and hurting. My heart felt condolences to Keith and the entire family…Diana Kafer LaVoi
Jo was always so kind and thoughtful! Always taking the time out of her busy work day at UIHC to stop and ask how you and your families are! She always had a smile and some excitement! Thinking of you and your families during this difficult time!!
Sent with love and remembrance,
Jo was a great neighbor growing up in the country. She had one of the best smiles. Thinking of the entire family at this time.
Jo interviewed me for a job as RN in the PET center 19 years ago, and I retired from there 2 months ago. She was quite a fun loving person. I am so sorry to learn of her passing. Sending good thought for her family, I know they will miss her. RIP.
Keith, Lizzie, John, and your entire family I am so sorry about JoAnn. I enjoyed talking nursing with her and always liked that connection. Hugs to you all.
Jo was a kind and thoughtful lady. It was always a pleasure to run into her and visit. I want to express my sincere sympathy to her family. I know that you will miss her very much.
My condolence to Keith and his family on the death of Jo. I worked for many years with Jo in the PACU of UIHC. After retirement it was always so much fun when Jo joined the parties with the “old PACU gang”. Not only was she a great co-worker but a wonderful friend. Peace to all! Helen Dietrich
I am so very sorry for your loss. Jo was a gem and she will be missed.
This is a tribute from Dad that he wanted to share… Our Life and Marriage Together by Keith, written October 19, 2020 Our life and marriage was a small ship on a large sea. My responsibility was being the boatswain’s mate and keeping out ship seaworthy. Jo was truly the Captain and steered it through the storms and the calms, we all know that a ship doesn’t sail on yesterday’s breeze. I was the one who looked to see where yesterday’s breeze took us. Jo (the true Captain) was always looking to see where today’s and tomorrow’s winds were going to deliver us. I will love Captain Jo, my departed wife, forever. Love, Keith
I’ve felt Jo all around this week and I find it difficult to believe she’s transitioned to whatever comes next. I have no doubt she will find adventures in her new place. I picture her “partying in paradise.” I’m sending my deepest sympathy to all who loved her, especially Keith, Jenn, Kathy, Lizzie and those three granddaughters that she loved so deeply!
Olivia was able to express her feelings in a wonderful tribute to her Grandma. Pictures speak a thousand words that I do not have at the moment. Sharing more pictures to bring visual memories to Olivia’s sentiments.
If my memory serves me, I was back for Heritage Days around 2014. I was with my cousin Sara Gaarde and we were just hanging out and walking around town. We ran into Jo and Mary Baumann. They were setting up for a class reunion dinner that night. We had a lot of fun visiting and I was reminded of how delightful Jo was. Having been away from Mt. Vernon for many, many years she remembered me. That made me happy . And I can remember thinking to myself at the time, no wonder she was Homecoming Queen of her class. Personable, charming and sincere, everyone loved her. Words can not express how sorry I am for her family and friends. Her passing has been a huge loss for the community. But what a life well lived and well loved. Cindy Litts, Denver, Co.
My gift of a tree to be planted in Jo’s memory and in remembrance of her everlasting spirit.
Jo and i had many fun times the past few years..our wonderful trips together..hawaii…australia..and our road trip from los angeles to mv with lizzy and uncle dave…never a dull moment on that trip…we had lots of talks about our childhoods and she told when they would waterski on the cedar river and her adventerous snowmobile outings…the past few years we were nearly inseperable…hh at the big grove or our favorite just sitting around the firepit with family and friends…Jo was my cousin and my friend and i will miss her….
Jo was my nursing school classmate and I always admired and respected her. Now all these years later I value her rich life and her professsional accomplishments. My sincere condolences to her family! It is too soon to lose her!
Jo Ann made the world a sweeter more beautiful place – through her kindness, generosity, care of nature, attention to those in need… I admired her loyalty, intellect, ready laugh, energy, curiosity, & creativity. My heart goes out to Keith, family, & friends.
There’s such an emptiness knowing my friend of more than 60 years is gone. The miles between us never seemed to matter……and that’s true friendship
Bowers’ Family Jo’s presence was always the first question family members would ask when I planned family gatherings. Her attendance was the highlight with her famous bread. With 50 some siblings and children at the gathering they planned their place in the line for food with Joe’s “bread”. She never missed an opportunity to share her baking skills, garden flowers, vegetables, fine wine, and most importantly her social gatherings with family and friends. Her friends were many and enjoyed travel with her, coffee , dining, kayaking, musicals, etc. Jo was loved by so many. The many memories of this special lady guide us through her loss.
So many of you weren’t able to join us (yet) to celebrate and remember Mom, so I thought I’d share with all of you what I shared during our intimate farewell today. Thank you all for understanding. We are feeling your love in many ways….Spoken by Kathy at the burial ceremony…Over the past week we’ve been hearing and talking about all the wonderful things about Mom, her strength, her style, her intelligence, her generosity, her adventurous-ness – and all of it is so true – it’s where my thoughts about her immediately go too….But, after thinking about what to say today – in addition to all of the wonderful and amazing things she was – she was my Mom….As a kid she was kinda tough. She didn’t really put up with much crap – and it made me tough too….I remember falling off of our epic rope swing from the highest point – right on my back and got the wind knocked out of me. I couldn’t get a breath and was pretty freaked out. She saw what had happened and didn’t even flinch. Instead of the sympathetic motherly hug I SO thought I deserved in that moment – she just told me to get up out of the mud and go clean myself up – I was a mess. So confused, I did what I was told – and she was right – I was fine. She believed I was tough – so I was tough – that was Mom….Midway through life she became my ultimate admirer. I knew she was paying close attention to my interests – eagerly, but subtly nudging me along – always the little bird on my shoulder saying – give it a try – push yourself a little further. Always wanting to make her proud – I tried – and it always paid off – that was Mom….More recently in life I had what every daughter dreams of – to have a Mom who is a friend. All the toils of the mother/daughter relationship was rewarded with a mutual respect and unconditional friendship. All of a sudden she wanted to go to lunch with me – have a glass of wine with me – – just me. She and Dad quickly realized I was scared to death. What did I do? What’s going on? What’s the bad news? Nothing – she just wanted to be my friend – wow. That was Mom….I guess all of these stages and transitions of how she was as a Mom is what has shaped me. Reflecting on it now – it seems so methodical – so well thought out – and knowing her it probably was – but she did it so naturally – like it was effortless – even though it most certainly wasn’t – that was Mom….Going through life, I certainly realized what a great mother I had – there was no denying it, but it takes a moment to look back and really realize how amazingly lucky I was. And being a mom now, following her formula – and looking at the ages of my two girls – watch out girls – it doesn’t matter what Grandpa says – I think I’m gonna have to get a little tougher….And to Dad – I need to say thank you. For taking care of her and for being the love of her life. You were her dock and were always there for her when she returned home from her social engagements and adventures. She got to be the Jo that she was because she had you….We all got to witness and participate in this great life Mom created for herself and we’ll all be better for it….Mom – you did all the things that needed doing. Now rest – we’ll take it from here. We watched, we listened, we learned, we heard you.
What a beautiful commemoration!
This is so beautiful Kathy. I am Mary Squiers daughter-in-law, your mother was one of my absolute favorites of that fun gang of women. She was always so kind and graceful and present when she talked to you, I really appreciated that. My deepest sympathies to all of you.
Thank you Kathy,.
Your words brought tears to my eyes. I always loved it when I saw Jo Ann at a gathering, she made it better by her presence. Love to you and your family❤️💔 The Wolfgang will miss her dearly. Barb Wolfe
No Mom could hope for more than your beautiful tribute, Kathy. Though I don’t know you, I feel I do for Jo always talked about you and Jen and kept me up-to-date on your lives. What wonderful gifts she has left to you girls! And I would expect nothing less of my friend Jo. There is an enormous hole in your heart right now, I know. But the amazing memories you have will slowly fill the void. Think of it as your mom’s garden…..because she took such good care of it, it’s still growing. đź’•
Kathy, You very thoughtfully found the words to express what is in both of our hearts. Thank you so much for sharing them with others whom are grieving, but could not attend. It was an intimate, beautiful, transition for Mom. I love you. Jennifer
Kathy, You’ve done her proud…giving her so lovingly through your eyes to us all who have experienced her light and spirit and love! She leaves a huge empty space in your life, in Jennifer’s, in Keiths, in Liz’s, and John’s, in her grandchildren’s, in the lives of each and everyone in your family, and in oh-so-many other lives. She leaves us all so enriched and heartened by her existence! And her adventurous spirit saw her through to a heartful, and empathetically swift end. Heart imogee here!!! An early loveliness with Jo came to me as a result of a chocolate praline cake delivery to me by Jo requested as a birthday present from my on-the-road husband Jim…great cake…I have the recipe! And there is still post-durecho a redbud tree that came from a little one of Jo’s that lives in my backyard in Lisbon. Love and empathy and gratitude for Jo to you all, Sara Ellison
Beautiful and you captured our Jo perfectly!! Thank you so much for sharing this. I feel her in so many wonderful ways all around my home. Photos, items she gave me, my gardens that she taught me to tend…even recipes I find myself making. She was a wonderful mother and she was as wonderful as a friend! You were lucky to have known her as both!
In 1986 Jo hired me in the old PACU. She was a fun and fair Nurse Manager. We drove down to MT Pleasant together on Thursday nights to obtain our BSN’s. We always had a good time! Recently, I enjoyed seeing Jo at Krouls Farm and at the “ old PACU gang” get togethers. I send my condolences to Keith and family. I am sad to learn of this news. Jo was a GEM. Hugs.
Extending deep and heartfelt sympathy to you and your family
To Keith, Lizzie, Kaylene, and the Entire Family, It saddened me so very much to learn of Jo’s passing. Although I am far away, I still consider Iowa home, with all my Dear friends there, Jo being one of those special Ladies in my life. Jo and I always loved talking “nurse talk”, while we both worked, and even after retirement. Her photo, along with my Mt Vernon friends is on my desk and I will continue to think of her daily, she will be missed in my life as well as many, many others, missing her also. I want you all to know I am thing of you, Most Sincerely, Elaine Ferguson Green Valley, AZ
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss… Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.