Joan Martin

Joan Martin, age 83, of West Union, IA, (formerly of Calmar), died peacefully with her family by her side on Friday, September 29, 2017, at Gunderson Palmer Lutheran Hospital in West Union, IA. A private family graveside service will be held on Tuesday, October 3, 2017 at St. Aloysius Catholic Cemetery in Calmar, IA with Rev. Donald Hawes presiding. There will be no formal services or visitation for Joan. Memorials in Joan’s name may be sent to the family at 505 West Clark Street, Calmar, IA 52132. Joan Ann Martin was born in Decorah, IA on November 18,1933 to Charles and Marcella (Houdek) Barr. She attended school in Calmar. She met her soulmate and the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Martin at Art’s Roller Rink in Ossian, IA. On March 26, 1951, Robert and Joan were united in marriage at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Clermont, IA, by Father Robert Cooney. This union was blessed with two daughters: Patricia Ann and Donna Jean. Joan lived in Calmar all of her married life. She enjoyed a wonderful and happy life with Bob and her daughters. In earlier years, she worked at Phil’s Café in Calmar, Calmar Manufacturing, did daycare in her home and was a stay at home mother raising her daughters. She loved making wedding flowers, doing crafts of all kinds and entering many craft shows. She was a loving wife and mother and made many friends throughout her lifetime. She enjoyed all the family get togethers and birthday parties. Joan was an excellent cook and baker and loved going shopping and eating out at her favorite places with her daughters. She touched the lives of everyone who knew and loved her. Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away . . . "WE LOVE YOU MOM & MISS YOU BEYOND WORDS." Joan is survived by her two daughters: Patricia (Tom) Price, Waterloo, IA and Donna Martin, Calmar, IA. Brother: Roger Barr, Mason City, IA. Nieces and nephews: Charles (Marlene) Barr, Rochester, MN and Debbie Higley, Northwood, IA. Joan was preceded in death by her husband Robert “Bob” Martin. Parents: Charles and Marcella (Houdek) Barr.