Jennifer Joy Gander

Jennifer Joy Gander, 49, of Paola, Kansas, passed away surrounded by loved ones on January 23, 2025.

She was born on March 23, 1975, in Richmond, Virginia, to Dennis Dale and Judy Kay (Kutz) Gander. Jennifer grew up in Osawatomie, Kansas, where she attended Osawatomie High School, graduating with the Class of 1994.

During her high school years, Jennifer was an active member of Calling All Girls, served as the manager of the Volleyball Team, and participated in the Color Guard.

Jennifer dedicated her life to helping others. After earning her CNA license, she worked at Lifecare Nursing Home, where her compassion and kindness touched many lives. She later joined the dietary department at Osawatomie State Hospital, where she also volunteered her time in the clothing department. Additionally, Jennifer found joy in volunteering at North Point Nursing Home, sharing her warmth and care with residents.

Jennifer had a creative spirit and enjoyed hobbies such as reading, crafting, and crocheting. She also cherished simpler pleasures like watching cartoons, getting her nails done, and babysitting her niece and nephews. Known for her friendly and outgoing personality, she loved walking around Paola, greeting neighbors and making new friends along the way. Pink was her favorite color, and Jennifer’s radiant smile and sweet innocence left a lasting impression on everyone she met—she truly never knew a stranger.

Jennifer also attended T.O.P.S. in Paola and was part of the Bridge to Freedom Group. Her faith was an important part of her life. She attended services at Block Trinity Lutheran Church, Pearl Street Baptist Church, and Lifecare Center, where she found comfort and community.

Jennifer was preceded in death by her nephew, Drake Langston. She is survived by her parents, Dennis Gander, and Judy and Don Jordan; her sisters, April Gander-Wilson and Anna (Sinclair) Gross (Greg); her nephews, Devin Bruce, Dawson Bruce, Korbin Crockett, and Maverick Gross; her niece, Payton Bruce; and her great-nephews and great-niece, Bryce and Laila Langston, Ryder Bruce, and Kasen Bruce; along with many loving aunts, uncles and cousins.

Jennifer’s legacy of kindness, creativity, and unshakable faith will be cherished by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know her. She will be deeply missed.

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=ZCW9QSJMAEB9W

Mail checks:

The Jennifer Gander Memorial Scholarship Fund
c/o Miami County Community Foundation

702 Baptiste Drive

Paola, KS  66071