Edna M Menke

Edna M Menke. PhD, RN, died on July 30, 2022. She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Bender. She is survived by her stepchildren Alicia (Matthew), Allison (Joseph), Ryan, Kristen (Tyler) and her grand stepchildren Olivia, Cameron, Kaelyn, Kylie, Quinn, Kinsley, Addison and Lily. She delighted in her role as a stepparent and took boundless joy in watching her grandchildren grow.

Edna graduated from the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. She was a proud member of Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority. She completed two graduate degrees at The Ohio State University (MS and PhD) and subsequently embarked on an illustrious career in higher education at The Ohio State University College of Nursing spanning several decades. Her career in higher education included service as an Associate Dean, Program Director of the Doctoral Program in Nursing, and Acting Assistant Director for Graduate Education in addition to achievement of her academic rank of Associate Professor. Her research focused on children with chronic illness and mothers and children who are homeless.

She retired from OSU as an Associate Professor with Emeritus status. Edna was a quintessential academician. She inspired scores of graduate nursing students to complete research projects to promote the health of vulnerable children and their families. She also embraced in her role as a mentor to junior faculty members and was unselfish in sharing her wisdom to help develop the next generation of nurse educators.

In retirement, Edna worked tirelessly to assist elderly persons in German Village to be able to stay in their homes through her volunteer service with the Village Connections, where she served as a member of their board of directors. She also remained steadfast in her loyalty to her alma maters at the University of Cincinnati and The Ohio State University and was an avid fan of the Bearcats and Buckeyes sports teams.

Friends may call 5-8 p.m. Monday August 15th at EGAN-RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 403 E. BROAD ST. According to Edna’s wishes, condolences can be expressed through a donation to University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and The Ohio State University College of Nursing where there is an endowment established to honor her work the Edna Menke Community Scholar Fund, fund # 482412.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edna M Menke, please visit our floral store.