Joanne Carol Unbehaun

Known as “Jo” to her friends and “Jo-Jo” to her husband and grandsons, she passed peacefully on September 17, 2024. Joanne Carol Kosmatka was born on February 13, 1947, and grew up in Chesterton, Indiana, near Lake Michigan.

Marriage to Charles Unbehaun took her to Wisconsin, followed by Texas, where they have lived for 50 years. Jo touched so many people's lives and has numerous friends. She was kind, smiling, and always willing to help. Her joy was contagious. Her love of dogs turned into a passion. She competed in flyball and dog agility for over 30 years with her West Highland White Terriers. Jo supported the Westie Rescue of North Texas. As a result of her love of writing, she was the editor of her club’s newsletter, Dallas Agility Working Group’s The DAWG Scoop, for over 30 years and was the winner of the Dog Writers Association of America’s Annual Writing Competition in 2023.

She demonstrated her Christian upbringing and steadfast beliefs throughout her life. We know she is in Heaven and look forward to seeing her again.

Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Sylvester and Ruth Kosmatka, brother Thomas Kosmatka, and best friend Linda Rankin.

Jo-Jo is survived by her husband of 55 years, Charles Unbehaun; daughter, Ann Noggle; son-in-law, Joseph Noggle; grandsons Andrew, Alexander, and Aaron; and siblings Ruth Norlington and John Kosmatka. Jo—wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend—will be deeply missed. Her love has touched us all. Until we meet again...