Joan Goldthwait

Joan Goldthwait of Saranac Lake, NY passed away peacefully on Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024 at the age of 81. She was born in Concord, NH to Lawrence and Charlotte (Sanders) Goldthwait.

Joan never met a sport she didn't enjoy. She was an avid sportsperson throughout her life, competing in speed skating, rowing, rugby, softball and volleyball. She loved being a member of the Lake Placid Speed Skating Club.

She worked as an RN in the mental health field in New Hampshire, Colorado and Utah. She also took great pride in volunteering at the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic winter games.

Her happy place was her family's "camp" on Lake Wentworth. In summer she could often be spotted floating in an inner tube. She celebrated her birthday with cousins on the screen porch, ran into Wolfeboro for her daily Dunkin' (extra sugar packets, please), and finished knitting projects with a light heart.

She is preceded in death by her parents and brother, Steven Goldthwait. Joan is survived by her nephew, Sander Goldthwait, niece, Sarah Goldthwait and sister-in-law Merritt Jenstad Goldthwait and many beloved cousins. She will be forever remembered by many friends, including dear lifelong "chosen family" Patricia ("Lewie") and Charles Upham, her wonderful neighbors in Saranac Lake and her cat, Chowda.

Joan will be remembered for her contagious laugh, sports enthusiasm, lifelong zeal for practical jokes, and her love for both given and chosen family members. Donations in her memory can be made to the Lake Placid Speed Skating Club.