Joan Thomas Stuedell, 86, of Tryon, N.C. passed away, Monday, July 13, 2015, in her residence surrounded by love.

 

Born in Chicago, Ill., she was the daughter of the late Oscar and Ethel Bergman Thomas. She was married to Robert Kolbe Stuedell for 56 years before his passing in 2013.

 

People who knew Joan admired her for her strength, sincere sweetness, and sharp mind. Joan loved crafts, knitting, bunnies, and gardening. She volunteered at the Peppermint Shop for many years in Tryon, N.C. Joan loved Jazz music and was a regular supporter of 88.7 WNCW.

 

Joan was a research scientist working on blood type genetics for the University of Chicago, and also was the head of the Commission on Aging.

 

Surviving are two sons, David Stuedell (Stacey) of Los Alamos, N.M., and Tim “Duke” Stuedell (Angela) of Manona, Wisc.; one brother, Ron Thomas of Surprise, Ariz.; four grandchildren, Austin, Amber, Brooke, and Bryan.

 

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 130 Forest Glen Rd., Columbus, NC 28722, 828-894-7000.

 

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.

 

McFarland Funeral Chapel

Tryon, N.C.