JoAnn Emerson

1941 - 2025

JoAnn Emerson

May 22, 1941 - June 23, 2025

JoAnn Evelyn Emerson passed away peacefully on June 23, 2025, after a long and happy life.

She was born on May 22, 1941, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Victor Albin Wedin and Ann Margaret Lang.

JoAnn graduated from Washington High School in St. Paul. She was recruited by International Harvester Corporation, where she worked as a typist and secretary-and where she met her future husband, Victor Emerson.

While raising their family, JoAnn returned to school, attending Lakewood Community College and later the University of Minnesota, where she earned her associate's degree.

She later worked in the bedding and china departments at Dayton's (later Marshall Fields) Department Store in Eau Claire-a job she truly enjoyed, especially the camaraderie/fellowship of her coworkers.

JoAnn had a true love of life, a generous spirit, and a very nurturing soul. She loved cooking, traveling, shopping, reading, and connecting easily with others. Her warmth and curiosity made people feel instantly comfortable.

She is survived by her sons, Mark (Yu), Marvin (Kara), and Wesley; and her beloved grandchildren, Alex and Aaron, Tristan and Vance, Erik and Sofia. She was preceded in death by her husband, Victor, and her daughter, Susan.

JoAnn was raised in a family that instilled in her the values of hard work and the importance of family. She carried those values throughout her life as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

She will be interred at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minnesota alongside her husband, Victor, on a future date.