Joan A. Eidsvold

Joan Ardell Eidsvold was born on December 24, 1941, in Cavalier, ND, the daughter of Jacob and Isabel (Mozinski) Dietrich. Joan was a graduate of St. Thomas High School at the top of her class in 1959 and furthered her education at the MN School of Laboratory Technique in Minneapolis. After her schooling, she pursued a career as a Lab Tech in Morris, MN.   In 1963, at a New Year's Eve party, Joan met the love of her life, Thomas Eidsvold, starting a beautiful journey together. Their marriage on October 27, 1963, marked the beginning of a loving partnership that would last for 60 wonderful years.  

Together, they welcomed their beloved son, Brian, into their hearts through adoption on September 11, 1968.   Joan dedicated herself to creating a loving home for her family, balancing her responsibilities as a homemaker with part-time work at a local clothing store. In 1987, Joan and Thomas relocated to Alexandria, MN, acquiring a beautiful lakeside residence on Lake Carlos.
 
In 2008, Joan faced a challenging medical situation, in need of a kidney transplant. After discovering that none of her siblings were a match, her adoptive son stepped forward and donated his kidney to save his mother's life in January of that year. This act of love and generosity beautifully exemplified the bond of love shared by Joan and her family.

Throughout her life, Joan found joy in playing bridge, participating in a Birthday Club, and one on ones with special friends.  She and Tom loved traveling and had many wonderful trips throughout the world.   She cherished her North Dakota heritage and the time spent with her family.  Joan nurtured a special bond with her grandsons, Drew and Jackson, who brought immeasurable joy to her life.

Joan's elegance and kindness endeared her to all who knew her, as she exemplified grace in all she did. Her presence illuminated any room she entered, and her sense of style was unparalleled.  With a keen eye for fashion, she always dressed impeccably, embodying a timeless grace that touched all who knew her.

Joan is survived by her devoted husband of 60 years, Thomas Eidsvold, her loving son Brian (Drea) Eidsvold, grandchildren Drew and Jackson, and siblings Margaret Smith, Esther Fischer, Robert (Mona) Dietrich, Dennis (Linda) Dietrich, and Diane (Herb) Van Sickle. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Donald, and sister Cindy Hartje.
 
Though her physical presence has departed, Joan's memory will forever linger in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in peace, Joan Ardell Eidsvold.

Joan A. Eidsvold, of Alexandria, MN, died on Monday, April 8, 2024, at the St. Cloud Hospital at the age of 82.
 
 A Celebration of Joan's life will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 11 AM at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria, MN.
 
 A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at First Lutheran Church on Friday.