Joanne Zielinski

Obituary Joanne Perry Rooks Zielinski
Joanne Perry Rooks Zielinski, 87, passed away on November 7, 2025, in American Fork, Utah. She was born on March 24, 1938, in Mound Valley, Idaho, the cherished daughter of Stanley Perry and Gwen Phyllis Nelson Perry. Throughout her life, Joanne embraced family, friendship, and the simple joys that brought her lasting happiness.
Joanne met Oran Dewey Rooks at the Idaho State Fair in Blackfoot Idaho. Then later while both were attending BYU they started dating. They were married in Idaho Falls on July 26, 1957. She attended BYU one year then worked so Oran could finish his degree. Together they raised four children. Though their paths later diverged, they remained on friendly terms throughout their lives. Years later Joanne was blessed to find love again with Thomas John Zielinski and they were married in Las Vegas, Nevada February 10, 1996. Their marriage was filled with laughter, card games, travel, and companionship until his passing. The memories they shared continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew them.
Joanne worked for many years as a legal secretary for Holden Kidwell, Hahn & Crapo Law Firm and later for Attorney Stephen Martin until her retirement. She was a vibrant and creative spirit. She loved getting lost in a good book, found joy in sewing, and took pride in tending her gardens. An avid golfer, she played in the ladies' league at the Idaho Falls Country Club in her younger years and later enjoyed golfing with Thomas. Her passion for family history was a lifelong pursuit, one that connected her deeply to her roots and heritage.
She is lovingly survived by her children: Pamela (Jeff) Shearer, Perry Rooks, Jackson (Christie Kinnaman) Rooks, and Jason (Julie) Rooks; along with 12 adoring grandchildren and five wonderful great-grandchildren who will carry forward her legacy of love and laughter.
Joanne was preceded in death by her beloved husband Thomas, her parents, and her siblings, Kay Perry and Nelson Perry.
Visitation will be held from 1:00pm until 2:00pm on Monday November 17th, 2025 at Hawker Funeral Home located at 132 South Shilling Ave. Blackfoot, ID 83221. Interment to follow at Riverside-Thomas Cemetery in Thomas, Idaho
Though Joanne has left this earthly home, her warmth, wisdom, and zest for life will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.