Jo Ellen Jongkind, 74, of La Porte, IN, passed away on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Northwest Health La Porte, surrounded by her family.
Jo Ellen was born on February 15, 1952, in La Porte, IN, to John and Vera (Benson) Gray.
On January 4, 1980, in La Porte, IN, she married Jacob Jongkind Jr. who survives. Also surviving are her 5 children, Leo (Jan) Jongkind of La Porte, Cindy (Rex) Masterson of Evansville, Jackie Edwards of Turlock, CA, Linda (Dave) Nobbe of Greensburg, and Johanna (Jim) Smith of Fort Collins, CO; 15 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; brother, David (Rita) Gray of La Porte; as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Maggie Rocco; and son-in-law, Dave Rocco.
Jo Ellen was an EMT for 40 years, proudly serving her community. Prior to that, she worked at the YMCA, where she was a program director. She was a member of the La Porte Missionary Church and enjoyed serving at the La Porte Pioneer Village.
She expressed her creativity through skillful quilting and knitting. Jo Ellen also enjoyed gardening and traveling.
Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A private family service will take place at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jo Ellen's honor to the La Porte Pioneer Village (make check out to: Pioneer Land), 150 Sagamore Parkway, La Porte, IN 46350 or the La Porte Missionary Church, 104 E. 18th St., La Porte, IN 46350.
Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.
