Juanita M. Foster

Juanita M. Foster, 83, of Ottawa, passed away Thursday, January 3, 2019, at Olathe Medical Center. Family will meet with friends from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M., Sunday, January 6, 2019, at Dengel & Son Mortuary. Celebration of life service will be held at 5:00 P.M., Monday, January 7, 2019, at the mortuary. Juanita was born December 20, 1935, in Pomona, the daughter of Robert and Goldie (Martin) Foster. She was a lifelong Ottawa resident. She graduated from Appanoose High School with the class of 1952. Juanita was united in marriage to Gene Gaut and later divorced. She married James Dyer and later divorced. Juanita married Gary Van Vaulkenburg in Ottawa. He preceded her in death. Survivors include children, Linda Klaes and husband John of Cimarron, New Mexico, Lorie Thomasson of Ottawa, Cheryl Esposito and husband Raymond of Fort Myers, Florida, and Sue Rhoades of Greeley; eleven grandchildren, Nathan, Amy, Chad, Tyler, Ashley, Devin, Lindsay, Ann, Austin, Golden, and Casey; and eight great-grandchildren, Truly, Madylin, Riyn, Eugene, Lilly, Everett, Layla, and Wyatt. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Goldie Foster; and ex-husbands, Gene Gaut and James Dyer. Juanita was employed with King Radio as a lead coordinator for 20 years. She enjoyed dancing, gambling, playing Bingo and loved going out with people. Juanita always looked forward to family gatherings and spending time with her grandchildren. She loved to cook, go to the beach, travel and garage sales. The family suggests memorial contributions to Hope House c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067. Family and friends are encouraged to post their condolences and memories on Juanita’s Tribute Wall at www.dengelmortuary.com