JoNell Peterson, born January 25, 1947 in Osawatomie, Kansas lost her life Sunday, July 14, 2013 to the very disease she fought against all her working career with the American Cancer Society, Ohio Division.

JoNell lived and worked in Columbus, Ohio for 22 years. At her retirement, she was recognized not only for her leadership in Ohio, but also nationally for her tireless effort to make the Relay for Life Program a success. As Vice-President of Relay for Life, the Ohio Division of the American Cancer Society raised over 140 million dollars in the fight against cancer. At her retirement in September 2012, JoNell was Senior Director of Annual Giving in the Ohio/Pennsylvania Division.

JoNell was a 1965 graduate of Osawatomie High School. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Oklahoma and loved following OU football. She was also an avid fan of Kansas University basketball. JoNell always enjoyed the companionship of dogs, and “Holly” and “Kelsey” will miss her dearly.

JoNell, the daughter of Clair and Marian Peterson, is survived by her brother Dan Peterson of Osawatomie; three nephews Garrett Peterson (Keri), Pvt Jacob Peterson, Taylor Peterson; their mother Mary Ann Peterson; two great nephews Cooper and Caden; an aunt Lorena Trinkle; cousins Sharon (Chip) Trinkle, and Leah Pummill, as well as many other cousins of the Peterson and Trinkle families.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, Olathe Hospice, or an animal care shelter and can be sent in care of Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home, P. O. Box 280, Osawatomie, KS, 66064.