B. Joan "Joann" Kirchgessner

B. Joan "JoAnn" Kirchgessner, age 94, of Peoria, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 11:24 PM at Proctor Hospital.

Joan was born March 6, 1931, in Beason, IL, a daughter to Raymond F. and Anna Mae (Hasenmyer) Cohoon. On February 18, 1950, she married Edwin M. Kirchgessner at St. Mark Catholic Church. Together they cherished 28 years until his passing on July 4, 1978.

They raised their family in Peoria and helped grow Holy Family parish where she continued faithfully serving in various capacities for decades. Joan had a particular devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary which directed her compassionate care for family, friends, and strangers alike in many varied volunteer services. She loved knowing people and being involved in their lives, always remembering to send birthday, holiday, anniversary cards – meticulously keeping her detailed calendar and contact information up to date as the central database for the family. She enjoyed traveling, sightseeing, and staying abreast of current news and events. Visits with her grandchildren found her on the road often to St. Louis and Milwaukee with trip extensions to points of interest beyond, always something new to explore.

She earned her nursing degree in 1972 and worked at Sharon Woods and Buehler retirement homes, eventually volunteering at OSF Hospital helping patients navigate the facility. Joan could always be counted on to lend a helping hand.

Survivors include three sons: David Kirchgessner of Milwaukee, WI, Kenneth (Teresa) Kirchgessner of Peoria and Donald (Cheryl) Kirchgessner of St. Louis, MO; nine grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, husband Edwin, one great granddaughter, three great grandsons, two brothers: Lloyd "Bud" and Thomas Cohoon; one sister Jean Kuhlman; and one daughter in law Jane Kirchgessner (wife of David).

Visitation will take place at Wright & Salmon Mortuary on Friday, February 20, 2026 between the hours of 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM with recitation of the rosary at 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 10:00 AM with an additional visitation one hour prior to mass. Father Greg Jozefiak will officiate. Cremation rites will be accorded following mass.

Preferred memorials in Joan's memory may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church.

Friends and family are encouraged to log onto www.wrightandsalmon.com to sign the online guestbook, submit photos and share Joan's memorial page via social media.

Funeral and cremation rites have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary. (309-688-4441)