Barbara Joan Mikesell

1930 - 2014

Barbara Joan Mikesell, 83, passed away at home Saturday, July 19, 2014, with her family by her side.

Joan was born Dec. 5, 1930, in Kansas City, Mo., to Bert Hall and Elizabeth Hudson Hall. She and her family moved to North Hollywood in the early 40's, where she met the love of her life, Charles Mikesell. They were married in 1947, and would have celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary in September. After many adventures in California, the young family of seven then moved to Idaho Falls in 1969. While Chuck worked at the INEL, Joan became active in the Idaho Falls community by volunteering at the Women Against Violence organization. She was instrumental in helping many women escape from horrible situations. She volunteered at the Methodist church for many years, helping to plan wedding receptions and other events. Joan was always busy helping others and always had something in the works. She was very involved in her family, keeping everyone together and up-to-date on what and how everyone was doing. She enjoyed playing games, especially Pegs and Jokers and Badminton. Later she became very involved in the Baha'i Faith, where she maintained the Idaho Falls Baha'i library. She also enjoyed her garden, where she always had something in bloom. She had even entered and won first place on her begonias and other flowers in the state fair. She also enjoyed traveling. They traveled the country in their motor home throughout the 90's. They spent every winter in Yuma, Ariz., where they enjoyed the company of many friends throughout the years.

Joan was the wife of Charles Mikesell and loving mother of five.

She was preceded in death by her son, Jon Mikesell; her parents; and two brothers, Jerry Hall and Boyd Hall.

She is survived by Mary Mikesell of Washington; Chris Mikesell (Brandie) of Beebe, Ark.; Michael Mikesell (Kalee) of Blackfoot; and David Mikesell (Marie) of Boise. Joan has eight grandchildren: Christine Mikesell, Kevin Mikesell, Myca Grant, Tyler Mikesell, Jordan Mikesell, Ben Mikesell, Daniel Mikesell and Cody Midesell. She also has two great-grandchildren: Jake Mikesell and Eric Thompson.

Joan was a housewife and member of the Baha'i Faith.

Services will be at Wood Funeral Home and interment at Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.woodfuneralhome.com.