Joan B. Gaastra, age 87 of Markesan, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, September 17, 2019.

A memorial gathering for Joan will be held on Friday, September 27, 2019 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 45 St. Joseph St., Markesan from 12:00 p.m. (noon) until 2:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00 p.m. with Fr. Mark Miller as Celebrant. Inurnment will take place at Mackford Union Cemetery, town of Mackford.

Joan was born on April 11, 1932 in Milwaukee, the daughter of William and Cecelia (Ziarnek) Kordes. She graduated from Milwaukee Pulaski High School. On April 14, 1956 she was united in marriage to Samuel Gaastra at St. Helen's Catholic Church in Milwaukee. She enjoyed helping Sam operate the family business and was a dedicated, loving mother. In her younger years, she enjoyed spending time on Fox Lake, while later in life her travels took her throughout the world. As a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Markesan, Joan helped with the church construction in the 1970's and taught catechism. Joan loved attending live theater productions and musicals, watching old western movies, doing crafts, playing piano and gardening.

Joan is survived by her children, Judy (Rick) Feldt of Naples, FL, Jeff Gaastra of Ripon and Susan Gaastra of Waupaca; grandchildren, Nick (Patricia) Feldt, Mike Feldt and Hunter Gaastra; great-grandchild, Boe Gaastra; and further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Loren; brothers, Ralph and Robert; and other relatives.

Cornerstone Funeral & Cremation Services in Markesan is honored to be serving the family.