Joan Kvam of Hudson, WI passed away unexpectedly on Saturday February 20, 2021 in the comfort of her home surrounded by her family.

Joan was born on September 12, 1933 in Milwaukee, WI. She was the eldest of two daughters born to John and Theresa Krause. Prior to her graduating from Washington High School in Milwaukee, her childhood memories centered around her family and adventures at their cabin on Cedar Lake and cottage on Lake Michigan. She often referred to these enchanting places as her “Mt. Ide – Lake Woebegone”. Growing up a block away from Washington Park, and at that time the zoo, she would fall asleep to the African sounds of lions and elephants. The view from her back porch displayed such American icons as Harley Davidson and the Miller Brewery plant, complete with the spinning red lit Miller logo on top of the brewery. She would often say the whole world was on her doorstep.

Joan worked for several years as an executive administrator to the superintendent of schools in Hudson. She married the love of her life, Frank Kvam in Golden Valley, MN on June 13, 1986. She was a deacon in the Presbyterian church and her fellowship included Meals on Wheels and the Phipps Center. Her interests centered around the enrichment of herself through gardening, knitting, art, cooking, homemaking and her strong faith. All these things were driven by her passion to share her love and joy with friends and family, modeling her life after Jesus.

Joan is survived by her loving husband Frank, daughter Kristine Rutherford, both of Hudson, son Bill (Susan) Rutherford of Peoria AZ and St John, ND and John (Linda) Rutherford of River Falls, WI. Grandchildren include Katie (Padraig) of Arvada, CO, Benjamin of Missoula, MT and Amber of White Bear Lake, MN. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Eileen and daughter Kathy.

In recognition of her gift and her witness to us, a private service will be held at the O’Connell Funeral Home in Hudson. Joan’s service will be livestreamed at 1:30pm on Tuesday, February 23, 2021. For the livestream, please follow this link: Joan Kvam Memorial Service. In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Hudson, WI.