On Tuesday, August 21, 2018, JoAnn Kay Claunch, passed away in Austin, Texas. JoAnn was born on February 1, 1944 in New Rockford, North Dakota to LaVerne Abrahamson and Bruce Larson. She graduated from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 2004. JoAnn lived in the El Paso area for over 50 years. On December 27, 1963 she married Leonard Wayne Anderson, and together they had three daughters, Vicky, Stacy, and Nina. They divorced in 1970. On April 1, 1975, JoAnn married James Arnold Claunch. Together they had one son, Jason. JoAnn also gained two step-sons, Jim. and John.
JoAnn’s greatest joys came from her children, grandchildren and the children in her classroom. She was a teacher for over 20 years. She taught kindergarten and first grade at Western Hills United Methodist, La Union Elementary, and Santa Teresa Elementary. She was known for her big smile and her compassion.
JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband James Claunch on November 1, 1996. She is survived by her children, Vicky Anderson, Stacy Carrasco, Nina Legg, and Jason Claunch, her step sons Jim and John Claunch, her brothers Edward and Ronnie Rastovski, and her many grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Honorary pall bears are Jason Claunch, Luis Carrasco, James Legg, Josh Carrasco, Erik Legg, Kyle Legg, Sean Legg, and Aston Teague. Donations may be made to Hospice Austin Christopher House or to a teacher in your community.
