Joanna Welch, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, passed away on December 29, 2025, at the age of 77 in Olathe, Kansas. Born on June 30, 1948, to Ray and Roberta Gonser. A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at McGilley & Hoge Johnson County Memorial Chapel, 8024 Santa Fe Drive, Overland Park, Kansas, 66204, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 am.
Joanna's life was filled with love, laughter, and an honest straightforwardness that made her a cherished presence to all who knew her. Joanna had a passion for life's simple pleasures. She loved shopping, getting her hair and nails done, and enjoying a good puzzle. But her most favorite pastime was going to the casino with her best friend Sandy, where the laughter and adventures were always plentiful. Her infectious smile, vibrant spirit, and honest wisdom will be forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Joanna was a survivor of lung cancer, a true testament to her strength, resilience, and fighting spirit. She faced every challenge with courage, and her determination to never give up earned her the title of fighter in every sense of the word. While on earth, she may have struggled with mobility, but we find comfort knowing she is now at peace, free of pain and running through the streets of heaven, just as she always deserved.
Joanna is survived by her three children: Jon Ensign (and his spouse Ashlie Ensign), Jamie Ensign, and Jessica Petersen (and her spouse Josh Petersen). She also leaves behind five adored grandsons: Anthony Riley (Great grandson Ariston), Jonus Ensign, Ace Ensign, Kasen Petersen, and Macklen Petersen, who brought her endless joy and pride. She is also survived by her brother, Robert Gonser (and his spouse Tammy Gonser), along with her three nephews: Travis Gonser (and his wife Brittany Gonser), Trevor Gonser (and his wife Melissa Gonser), and Nathan Gonser. Joanna's deep love for her family and her legacy of love and wisdom will live on in them.
Joanna was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Roberta Gonser, her grandmother Ethel, her grandfather Everett, her Aunt Jean, Uncle Bill, and her cousin Terri Sue.
Though we grieve her passing, we celebrate the wonderful life she lived. We take comfort knowing she is now free of pain, surrounded by peace, and watching over us all with that same smile that warmed our hearts for so many years.
