Jean Annis Knudsen

Jean Annis Knudsen, 95, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away at Lutheran Hospital in Des Moines on May 2, 2022. Jean was born in Moravia, Iowa on July 12, 1926 to John and Grace Veach. She attended community schools in Moravia graduating in 1943, then attended AIB in Des Moines. She married Al Knudsen in 1946. They had two daughters and two sons. She worked forty years before retiring in 1986.

During her career, Jean held many positions including secretary at Lutheran Services, secretary at Preferred Risk Insurance Company and office manager at the Iowa Utility Association. Jean was active in numerous organizations throughout her life including St. Mark Church, WDM Women’s Club, Le Cercle d’Amis Sorority and serving as a volunteer at Lutheran Hospital.

In retirement, Jean enjoyed traveling throughout the world and spending time with friends and family. She had many interests including playing the organ, bridge, needlework, and crossword puzzles.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, John and Grace Veach; husband, Al Knudsen (1985); son, Dennis (2019); sister Mary and brother Richard. She is survived by daughters Jan (Bob) Swanson, Kathy (Dennis) Johnson; son, John (Sabine) Knudsen; grandchildren Angela Swanson, Julie (Mark) Wittry, Robert (Mandy) Knudsen, John Knudsen Jr., Stephanie Winter (Ian Knotts), Dustin Knudsen, Dylan (April) Knudsen, Jennifer (Robbie) DePatton, and Carrie (Braden) Willis. In addition, nine great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.

The family is planning a private family graveside service on Saturday, May 7, 2022 at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines. A celebration of Jean’s life will be held at a later time. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mark Church or Lutheran Services of Iowa.