Jo Ann Olinger

Jo Ann Olinger, 92, of Ferdinand, passed away surrounded by family on September 14, 2026 at Scenic Hills at the Monastery in Ferdinand, IN. Jo Ann was born in Ferdinand on December 28, 1933 to Anthony and Edwina (Lueken) Peters. She married Irenus Olinger, September 12, 1953 at St. Meinrad Archabbey in St. Meinrad; he preceded her in death June 9, 1981.

Jo Ann was a graduate of Academy of Immaculate Conception Class of 1951. In addition to working on the farm with her husband, Jo Ann also worked at Santa Claus Land, Schreiner’s IGA, and retired after 27 years at the Abbey Press. She belonged to Christ the King Parish, St Ferdinand Church and its St. Anne’s Sodality, Ferdinand American Legion Auxiliary, and volunteered at Scenic Hills for 20 years. In her free time, Jo Ann enjoyed playing Bingo and cards, and spending time with her family.

Jo Ann is survived by her three children: Ruth (John) Bickel of Newburgh, Geralyn (John) Gregory of Newburgh, Terry (Susan) Olinger of McKinney, TX.; eight grandchildren: Meghan Carroll, Allison Myers, Aaron Bickel, Audrey Bickel, Ryan Gregory, Chris Gregory, Angela Kohn and Lee Olinger; 17 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Arlene Olinger of Ferdinand; brothers, Eugene (Charlene) Peters of St. Meinrad, David Peters of Fulda, and sister, Mary (Allan) Rowlett of Muncie; sister-in-laws, Pearline Peters of Ferdinand, Judy Peters of Newburgh, and Janie Dilger of Mariah Hill.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Irenus; son Mark Olinger; brothers, Kenneth and Daniel Peters; and a sister Clara Mae Hagedorn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, September 22nd at 10:00 AM EST at St. Ferdinand Church in Ferdinand, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 4:00 PM EST to 8:00 PM EST on Monday, September 21st at Becher Funeral Home in Ferdinand, and again on Tuesday, September 22nd from 7:00 AM EST to 9:30 AM EST at Becher Funeral Home in Ferdinand.

Becher Funeral Home in Ferdinand has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.becherfuneralhome.com