Joan Marie Burch was born on September 9, 1940 in St. Paul, MN to George Lawton and Luella (Robinson) Burch.
She married Harold T. A. Melhouse on August 22, 1959 at Stanton Methodist Church. They lived in Phoenix, AZ for two years and then moved back to Leon Township to farm with his dad. While in Arizona, their two oldest children were born. Their other two sons were born in Minnesota. Joan went to Randolph High School and was a cheerleader for many years. She went on to Mankato State College.
Joan taught physical education at Wastedo School in the late 60's, taught chapter I for 25 years, and drove school bus for Merlyn Swanson and the Cannon Falls school district for 40 years. She did this along with being the "right hand man" for our farming and snowmobile business.
Joan was an active member of Urland Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday school, Luther League, was treasurer for many years, and involved in Peace Circle, Bible studies and mission works.
Her husband and her family were her top priorities in life, along with her God by her side at all times. She enjoyed entertaining and party planning. She will be remembered for her love of church, family events, baking and cooking.
Joan had many interests included golfing, snowmobiling, boating, snow and water skiing, dancing, CF sports teams, cards, board games and all kinds of sporting events, the top being the VIKINGS. In earlier years she did pottery and tennis league.
She is survived by her husband, Harold; children, Blaine (Lynn), Natalie (Gail), Mitchell (Carol), and Regan (Janell); grandchildren, Ryan (Diane), Derek (Megan), Amber, Matthew (Sarah), Justin (Nikie) Corniea, Tyler (Erin), Nathan, Kayla (Trey), and Aaron; great grandchildren, Caiden, Carson, Cash, Everlee, Henry, Winslow, Elliana, Owen, Lawson, Mavrick, McKennon, and Luna; sister, Lou (Iver) Larson; sister-in-law, Bonnie Burch; many nieces and nephews; and best friends, Jan and Nan.
She was preceded in death by her parents; parents-in-law, Burton and Alma Melhouse; brother, George Burch; brothers and sisters-in-law, Morris, Jean, Alva, Carol, Curt, and Donna.
Funeral service was held on Wednesday, May 15 at 11:00 am, with visitation from 10-11:00 am, at Urland Lutheran Church, Cannon Falls. Interment followed at the church cemetery.
Active pallbearers were her grandsons. Honorary pallbearers will be her granddaughters.
Memorials are preferred to Urland Lutheran Church, Cannon Falls Food Shelf, or donor's choice.
