
Joanne graduated from Bishop Ward High and attended St. Mary’s College. She had a long and rewarding career in the hospitality industry, where she retired as the sales director at the Ramada Inn Kansas City International Airport. Prior to her 20 plus year career with Ramada, she worked for the Hilton Plaza Inn KCI. Joanne was a faithful member of the KCI Rotary Club, where she became the first ever woman in the club and was named Rotarian of The Year. Joanne was also named the Platte County Citizen of The Year. She was a proud supporter of many Northland agencies, and was especially supportive of Hillcrest Ministries. Joanne had a love for both her Lord and her family, and was a member of Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church.
Survived by her husband, Donald John Nesslage of Parkville; three children: Robert Paul Thompson of Van Buren, AR, Melanie Manthey and husband, Gary of Cameron, MO, and Luann Thompson of Kansas City, MO; three grandchildren: Thomas T. Harmon, Nicholas A. Harmon and Jenny Simpson; two great grandchildren, Delilah and Ellie Harmon. She was preceded in death by her parents; and two sisters, Dorothy Hampton and Eve Kifer.
The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 11, 2022, at the Meyers Northland Chapel in Parkville. A Memorial Service celebrating Joanne’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, December 12, at the Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church. Graveside Services will follow at the Holy Angels Cemetery, Basehor, KS. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions are suggested to Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church or KCI Rotary Club. Memories of Joanne and condolences may be shared at Meyersfuneralchapel.com.
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother , Melanie. I got to know her at the Ramada Inn, when we worked there together. Love and comfort to all that loved her. Chanda😘
I’m so sorry to hear that Joanne has gone home. I truly enjoyed her company whenever we would get together for Hillcrest events. She was a pleasure to be around. I will miss her smiling face.
My heart broke when I heard about Joanne. She was like a second mother to me, so full of life and loved by many. She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
We were so sorry to hear of Joanne’s passing-she was always a joy to share time with! The ladies at Salon Si Bon will truly miss her amazing attitude and love of life!
Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family-rest in peace Joanne!
Love Tracy ,Theresa and the Salon ladies
I worked with Joanne at the Ramada hotel. She was a joy to know and I remember she had the greatest laugh. My condolences to your family.
Dear Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. I remember all of you coming over to Dorothy & Norman’s when we were growing up. So many happy memories. I send my love to you, all!
Love, Jeanette (Knackstedt) Harris 😘😘😘
In the Memory card that was printed at the funeral home, “Living Life” – it could not have been more perfect as a tribute to JoAnne! Even more important, as a reminder of how we should live our lives!
Heartfelt thoughts to you Mel & her entire family! ❤️