Joanne Ukena, 86, of Highland, died Wednesday morning, March 25, 2015, at Midland Hospice in Topeka.

She was born February 1, 1929, at Topeka, the youngest of five children born to David and Emma Morin Flynn.  Joanne grew up in Topeka where she attended school, later graduating from Capital Catholic High School prior to attending St. Mary’s College in Leavenworth.  Mrs. Ukena was a longtime member of St. Charles Catholic Church in Troy; the Highland Progressive Club; and was an avid bridge player. She married Neal (C.B.) Ukena, September 9, 1950, in Topeka.  They made their home in Highland all of their married life.  Neal died September 9, 1993.  She was also preceded in death by her parents; and three siblings.

Survivors include her children:  Anne Kufahl (Lyn) of Topeka, Pat Dittemore (Carl) of Wichita, Sally Garvin (David) of Manhattan, David Ukena (Mary) of Springfield, Missouri; a sister Rosemary Parry of Topeka; 12 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.  A dear friend, Stanley McCauley of Highland, also survives.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Charles Catholic Church in Troy, at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 28, with Father Francis officiating.  Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland after 10 a.m. Friday where the family will meet from 6 until 8 that evening.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Highland Community College or St. Charles Church which may be sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33, 66035.
A special message may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com