Jeanne Laree Berg PhD, 76, of Topeka, passed away Thursday, March 23, 2023.
She was born May 4, 1946, in Lindsborg, Kansas, the daughter of James and Virgie (Larson) Berg. She graduated from Lindsborg High School in 1964. In May 1970, she graduated with her Bachelor's degree in education from Washburn University. She received her Master's degree in School Psychology from Emporia State University in August 1973 and a Special Education Certificate from Kansas State University in December 1988. In May 1994 she was awarded a PhD in Educational Policy and Administration from the University of Kansas.
Jeanne loved education. During her years of teaching, she taught primarily art until she became a school psychologist. During her educational time she was a Supervising School Psychologist, a Director of Special Education at two psychology hospitals; one in Topeka and one in Kansas City and a Building Administrator for K-6. She retired as the Principal at MacArthur Elementary School in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas after a long and successful career.
When she wasn't spending time in school, Jeanne could be found spending time with her partner of 33 years, Jeannine Herron. They were thankful to have family spread throughout the globe. Together they shared their love for traveling, exploring new places throughout the United States, Europe and Asia and visiting family along the way. They enjoyed cruising the oceans as well.
Jeanne was a huge fan of all women's sports and could regularly be spotted cheering on her favorite teams. She was a big supporter in her family's lives as well, attending as many games, meets, plays, and concerts as she could when any of her grand nieces and nephews were involved. If she was able, she was there! Jeanne loved her family fiercely and will be greatly missed by everyone whose lives she touched.
Community meant a lot to Jeanne. She supported several projects, particularly arts-related projects, including the Topeka Civic Theatre, the Topeka Symphony Orchestra, and the Sunflower Music Festival.
Although Jeanne began as an art teacher, she had a talent for pottery as well. Together, Jeanne and Jeannine designed and built a spectacular wine cellar in their home, which became a place for relaxation, fun, and fellowship with their friends and neighbors.
She is survived by her partner, Jeannine Herron; brother, Jack (Anita) Berg; nieces, Kjersti, Kajsa, Maia, Annika, Caroline and Elizabeth; nephews, Eric, Christian, and Thomas; and numerous great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Janet Lampe, and her brother, James "Butch" Berg.
Cremation is planned and a Celebration of her life is will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at St. David's Episcopal Church 3916 SW 17th St, Topeka, KS 66604. Lunch will follow the service in Parish Hall.
There will also be a Graveside Service at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 13, 2023 10:00 a.m. at Elmdale Cemetery 1501-1571 E. Svensson Lindsborg, KS.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Topeka Civic Theatre 3028 SW 8th Ave, Topeka, KS 66606 (please write "Support Academy Programs" in the memo line) or to The Sunflower Music Festival - Sunflower Music Office Washburn University 1700 SW College Ave, Topeka, KS 66621.
To leave a message for her family online, please visit the guestbook below.