Joanne Middleton

Joanne Middleton, 95, passed away on March 19, 2025, at her daughter’s home in Ben Lomond, California where she had lived for the last 6 1/2 years.

Born on February 23, 1930, in Des Moines, Joanne was the child of Glen and Marjorie McNeley. She graduated from Des Moines Tech High School in 1948 and was an active organizer of class reunions for over 60 years. She met her husband, Bill, in high school where they performed in many plays together. In addition to raising a family of five children, Joanne worked for many years at Ardan Department Store before retiring from US Bank after a long tenure of service.

A talented and avid painter, Joanne found joy and connection through her Art Group at the Urbandale Senior Center. Her creative spirit was matched by a strong sense of community, reflected in her membership at Gatchel Methodist Church.

Joanne is remembered by her children: Susan Middleton Elya of Danville, CA; Nancy (Wendell) Innis of Ben Lomond, CA; Bill (Jennifer) Middleton of Colfax, IA; and Jim (Donna) Middleton of Lake Forrest, CA; ten grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Middleton, in 1987; her daughter, Barbara Middleton, in 2022; and three siblings.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue, Des Moines. Interment will follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Family will greet friends two hours prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to a veteran’s organization of the donor’s choice in loving memory of Joanne.

Please visit www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com to watch the service livestreamed or to leave an online condolence.

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