"We were saddened to hear of Joan's passing. She was a wonderful, caring woman who made you feel special. The Bullock Family will miss seeing Joan at the Peden family reunions. May the wonderful memories of Joan bring her family peace and comfort. "
In loving memory of
Joan R. Wilcox
January 13, 1937 - November 13, 2017
Joan Ruth Wilcox, 80, of Rochester, MN died Monday, November 13, 2017 at St. Marys Hospital.
Joan was born January 13, 1937 to James "Jyp" and Ruth (Hanson) Cole in Gary, SD. Joan graduated from High School in Gary and attended college in Brookings, SD, St. Cloud State and Mankato State in MN where she received her Master's in Administration. She married Lee Nelson and they had two children. She was a librarian in Granite Falls, MN and was the Principal in Maynard, MN at the public school. Joan married Bruce Wilcox. She became super-intendant at Dover-Eyota Public Schools where she retired. After retirement Joan wintered for 11 years in Destin, FL. She married David H. Peden. Joan enjoyed volunteering at Paws & Claws and United Methodist Church.
Joan is survived by her children, Kristine (Patrick) Stokes and David Nelson of Rochester, MN; one grandson, Jacob Oliver and one brother, James Cole of Gary, SD. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bruce Wilcox and her husband, David H. Peden.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 25, 2017 at Christ United Methodist Church (400 5th Avenue SW Rochester, MN). Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.
Memorials can be designated to Paws & Claws Humane Society.
To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600
Tributes
"I taught with Joan at Dover Eyota and retired in 1986. She was an excellent Superintendent to work for. I moved out of the area until 2012. We reconnected and stayed in touch since. Joan will be dearly missed and I will have her in my thoughts and prayers."
"Joan was a great person and was an excellent Superintendent. I was a teacher at Dover Eyota for all the years Joan was there and I really enjoyed her and Bruce - they were very nice people . She was a very giving person and my prayers are with her and the family. You get an A Joan for the life you lived. Your Mom and Dad were both very proud of you."
"Joan was a dear sweet lady and was one of our patients at Zumbro Family Dental. We were sorry to hear of her passing as she was a delightful person and had a wonderful spirit. We send our condolences to her family and loved ones. "
"Such a nice photo of Joan - showing that wonderful, big smile she always was wearing. Joan was a fantastic DE Superintendent. She used to sit with our daughter on the school bus and they chatted away, enjoying each others company. Please know our love, hugs & prayers, Nancy & Tom Hockert"
"My sincerest sympathy regarding the loss of your mother.I met her at the Waters on Mayowood. I have fond memories of Joan. She will be missed. In her memory I will donate a gift to Paws and Claws. Sincerely, Ann C. Bock"
"Dave, We were very sad to hear this news and our thoughts are with you and your family. Peace Terry and Margaret (Noah and Helton)"
"Dave: I was sorry to hear that your mom passed away! Prayers to you--may memories comfort!"
"Dave and family .... we are so sorry for your loss. I know how hard it must be. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Paul & Karla"
"My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May the promise found at Isaiah 25:8 bring some comfort to family and friends. "He will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces." God will remove sickness, old age and death from the human family. Jesus Christ taught us to pray for God's Kingdom to come at Matthew 6:9,10. God's original purpose for the earth being a paradise will be realized. We will be with our dear loved ones once again. May God's loving promises and your pleasant memories comfort you at this difficult time and in the days ahead."
"I was fortunate to be a neighbor of Joan's on Riverwood Lane. We had an immediate connection because we had both been in education and both loved dogs. I will never forget Joan going with me when I had to put down my dog, Lucy. She later dog sat for my cockapoo, Daisy, who loved staying with her! When I moved from the neighborhood, Joan and another neighbor had a picture of Daisy painted for me. I will always treasure that thoughtful gift. I will always remember Joan as a classy, bright, and vivacious lady. My deepest condolences to Joan's family for their loss. God bless. Carol Barry"