Jean Ann Benthagen
- jennie2409
- 21 hours ago
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Updated: 2 hours ago
Jean Ann Benthagen (Schwahn)February 18, 1939 – October 15, 2025
Jean Ann Benthagen, age 86, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025.
Jean was born on February 18, 1939, in North Dakota, to Clemens Schwan and Ann Jacobs. Following her father’s passing when she was very young, she was cared for by her mother and her stepfather, Oscar Stenerson, who played a special role in her life.
After graduating from high school, she later moved to California, where she raised her family and built a fulfilling career. Jean worked for many years as an elementary school secretary before transitioning to a medical office front desk position, where her warm personality and kindness touched everyone she met. Upon retirement, she and her husband made their home in Spokane Valley, Washington.
In 1964, Jean married, Robert Leon Benthagen, on July 18. Together they shared many wonderful years of marriage and raised two children, Jay Benthagen (Yesi)Â and Roxann Fagetter (Craig). Jean was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
A lifelong crafter, Jean explored a wide variety of creative outlets — from sewing and ceramics to resin molds and tri-chem — before discovering her true passion in quilting. She cherished time spent with friends at social gatherings, clubs, and quilting groups. Her fa
ith was an important part of her life; raised Catholic, Jean converted to Lutheranism upon marriage and remained a devoted member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Spokane Valley, though she was unable to attend in person after the start of the COVID pandemic.
Jean was preceded in death by beloved husband Robert, her parents, Clemens Schwahn, Ann (Stenerson), and Oscar Stenerson; her brothers Leo, Virgil, Norbert, and Kenneth; and her sister Helen.
She will be remembered for her warmth, creativity, faith, and love of family.
