Joan Lea (Larson) Abrahamson, age 94, of Grand Marais, passed away October 18th, 2024, in her home with family by her side.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband Howard, her mother, father, siblings and son Bill (William). She is survived by her children Mark Abrahamson (Steve), Lynn Abrahamson, Lisa Rillo (Arnel); grandchildren, Juliet Davis-Shojaie (Saeed), Lana Meisner (Dan), Victoria Fahey (Kyle), Antonio Rillo (Anna), Beckley Rumph, Naomi Smith (Mark) and Chad Byers; great grandchildren Melanie, Jay, Siena, Gabriella, Augustus, Belen, Olivia, Laiten, River, Gentry, Skyler and Kiki.

Joan was born in 1930 and spent most of her childhood on her grandparents’ farm in Northfield. After high school she continued her studies in Aberdeen, South Dakota where she met Howard who would become her husband for over 50 years. She earned her degrees in Nuclear Medicine and Horticulture from the University of Minnesota. She worked at St. Mary’s Hospital in Minneapolis for many years as medical technician and manager of the nuclear medicine department.

After retirement she became a Master gardener and was a longtime volunteer at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. She and Howard then moved to Grand Marais from their farm in Jordan where they lived out their lives on the Good Harbor Hill Farm.

Joan was actively involved in the local garden club and she, along with Howard, volunteered for several garden-related projects around Grand Marais. She was on the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic Board and was the board liaison for the hospital for a number of years. She loved gardening, her green houses, sewing, and needlepoint projects but most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family and pets. All of these volunteer activities were recognized by the city of Grand Marais, honoring them with a citizens of the year award.

A memorial service will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Grand Marais, Minnesota on November 2nd, visitation at 10:00 AM followed by a service 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers consider a donation in honor of Joan to the Alzheimer’s Association.

She will be deeply missed by all who loved her. Rest in peace.