Jean Winebrenner

Jean Winebrenner, 78, of Peru, passed away at her home peacefully on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

Born Doris Jean Thomas, on April 7, 1947, in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Laurence (Bill) and Velma (Harpole) Thomas. She graduated from Orient-Macksburg High School in 1965. On November 3, 1968, she was united in marriage to Richard Winebrenner, in Rhode Island. Together, they shared a partnership rooted in love, respect, and understanding — always weathering life’s differences without a single argument.

Jean spent most of her life in and around Madison County, where she embraced her roles as a devoted farmwife, mother, business owner, and community member. She was involved in NFO -National Farmers Organization. She worked for Jerry Larson DDS as a dental assistant before becoming a mother. As the kids grew, she began her own home cleaning service. In 1997 along with her husband, she created Cobett Company, producing farmer-designed livestock waterers. Jean was not only instrumental in helping run the business but also treated every employee like family.

Though she may not have had a green thumb, Jean’s love for flowers made them flourish. Her warmth and joy were enough to bring any garden to life.

Jean is survived by her loving husband, Richard; her children, Lucas Winebrenner of Lorimor and Sarah Winebrenner-Rosenberger of Indianola; her brother, Phillip (Colleen) Thomas of Minneapolis, MN; and her cherished grandchildren, Jeremy and Gabby Rosenberger. Along with many nieces and nephews and a whole bunch of cousins – some good and some a little ornery.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Kenny Thomas.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Winterset Chapel. Family will receive friends prior to the service, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to MATURA-Madison County Multi-Purpose Center.