Joan Latvala began her journey from this world after a short battle with cancer from her bed, surrounded by family on April 21st, 2025, at the age of 77.  She leaves behind two daughters and their husbands, Cheri (Chris) and Michelle (Michael), and seven grandchildren, ages 16 – 32, Kenneth (Kayla), Joseph, Chiara, Nicholas (Karlee), Jacob, Luke, and Michaela as well as her sisters-in-laws, brother-law, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  

Joan was born in San Jose, California, on December 1st, 1947, and was preceded in death by her Parents, Joseph and June Dolezal, and her brothers, James and Edwin Dolezal.  She lived in California, Nevada, Alaska, Nebraska, Minnesota, South Dakota, and England, and was able to leave a mark in each place. 

Joan had a fierce love for family and life - her faith in Jesus was the foundation for everything she did.  She stayed close to Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary and was guided by prayer in every decision she made, which made her love of the Mass and the Eucharist immense. Her gentle spirit, generosity, and support for her family and friends were lifelong. Joan loved spending time with the family, especially the cherished moments with her grandchildren on birthdays and holidays. Playing games like scrabble, cards and having backgammon tournaments were moments she and us truly  treasured.  We will miss her sweet quirky jokes and witty responses which were always so well timed, came out of nowhere and always cracked everyone up.  

Joan, with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering dedication and devotion to her family served as a model person whom her daughters eagerly emulated.  Despite the challenges of being a single parent and a caregiver for her mother, she always met life with a positive attitude and a smile.  There are no words to capture how much her daughters truly valued her as a mother … and as a friend.   Joan will be missed tremendously by all.

Mass of Christian Burial at Noon on Friday, May 2, at St Peter’s Catholic Church (2600 Margaret St. N., North St. Paul, MN, 55109) with visitation starting at 11:00 am.  Burial at St Mary’s Cemetery.  Luncheon to follow.