Ann Behnken

Ann Behnken, 87, of Galesburg formerly of Altona, Illinois passed away at 7:07 a.m. Saturday, May 7, 2016 at Seminary Manor Nursing Home surrounded by her family. 

She was born October 1, 1928 in Marissa, Illinois, the daughter of Thomas and Zella Lehman McHatton.  She married Leland Behnken on October 4, 1952 in Marissa.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Leland; two daughters Nancy (and David) Erickson of Altona, and Mary Durham of Galesburg; three grandchildren, Elizabeth, Katherine, and Adam; and two great-grandchildren, Zella and Delaney. She was preceded in death by her sister Grace (Betty) Anderson.

Ann graduated from Marissa High School and attended Southern Illinois University. She worked with her father in the land management business, helping put together plant sites for Peabody Coal and Alcoa Aluminum. In 1969 she and Leland moved to the Altona area and began a farming operation.

Ann was a member of the United Church of Altona where she was a dedicated worker. She enjoyed traveling all over the world.  In retirement she enthusiastically took up golf. She also enjoyed spending time in Florida with family and friends.

Her family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Hawthorne Care Center and her caring doctors. 

Funeral Services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday May 12, 2016 at Hinchliff-Pearson-West Galesburg Chapel with Rev. David Pyell officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday evening at the chapel. Burial will be in Oneida Cemetery Oneida, Ill.. Memorials may be made to the United Church of Altona or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com..