Elizabeth JoAnn Aller

Elizabeth JoAnn Aller

Belle Plaine

Elizabeth JoAnn Aller of Belle Plaine, IA passed peacefully in her sleep on July 12, 2025. Born on December 17, 1933, she was the oldest daughter of Clarence and Margaret Hall where she grew up on farms and small towns in rural Iowa. JoAnn, as she was known to everyone, graduated from Keswick High School where she enjoyed singing and playing the violin. She also loved playing basketball and being a part of the team that went to the state tournament often during her high school years. She attended Iowa State University for one year before meeting and marrying her husband of over 65 years - John Donald (JD) Aller - on November 28, 1953. John and Elizabeth - Don and Jo - farmed and raised their family in rural What Cheer before retiring to Belle Plaine in 1984.

JoAnn was a tireless homemaker, always thinking of and putting her family first. She was a member of the What Cheer United Methodist Church, the PTA, and local bowling leagues, and loved to square dance. Jo was an avid reader, loved watching basketball and horror movies, and in her later years, always had a crossword or word-find puzzle on her lap. JoAnn and Don enjoyed traveling and playing bingo.

JoAnn’s favorite role in life was that of being a grandmother - “Grandma Jo.” She adored all of her grandchildren and played a major role in their lives, attending school events, birthday parties, and helping to care for them with myriad overnight visits at Grandma’s house.

JoAnn is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Kimberly Dawn and Larry Byers; grandchildren, Brian (Jen) Aller of Colfax, Josh (Ashley) Aller of Delta, Todd (Ashley) Byers of Lincoln, NE, Chad (Kristen) Byers of Luzerne and Theresa (Scott) Gustaveson of Cedar Rapids; sister-in-law Pat Hall of Cedar Rapids; seven great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many other friends and extended family. JoAnn epitomized the quintessential lady and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, JD in 2019; son Kevin R. in 2019; parents Clarence and Margaret Hall; sister Judy (Jerry) Wolvers; and brothers Larry Hall and Manley (Esther) Hall.

There will be a family celebration of life at a later date. JoAnn’s family would like to thank all the staff at Rose Haven Nursing Home and St. Croix Hospice for their wonderful care at the end of her life. Memorials may be sent to: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at givenow.lls.org.

Condolences may be expressed at www.iowacremation.com under obituaries.