Joan K Parr
Died: Monday Jun-03-2019
Funeral: Monday Jun-10-2019
Morrison Funeral Home
& Crematory
188 S. Hwy 24
Rupert, Idaho 83350
Contact and Directions
Joan K. Parr peacefully passed away at her home on Monday, June 3, 2019. The serenity of her passing matched the serenity of Snake River flowing outside her bedroom window. She gracefully surrendered to the cancer she originally treated four years ago.
Joan was born on January 7, 1947 to E. C. and Margaret Kelly. Her family lived in the San Francisco Bay area during her youth. Moving into the country at age ten allowed to her participate in 4-H. Her passion for the 4-H program was evident her entire life.
Joan and Wes met while attending California State Polytechnic University. They were married in 1969 and Joan was dragged kicking and fighting back to Idaho so Wes could farm with his dad. In 1970, she was hired by the University of Idaho Extension in Cassia County to serve as the Home Economist. Joan quickly learned to love the Extension Homemakers but her passion was with 4-H youth. Former leaders and 4-H youth are in touch with Joan today. It has been said that if Joan was cut she would ‘Bleed green”.
Food Safety was another area in which Joan had great interest and expertise. She presented numerous educational programs in her “white lab coat” mode. Wes was always grateful he didn’t have a “use by date”.
During Joans’34 years with the UI she earned her Masters Degree, was acting Foods and Nutrition Specialist, facilitated establishing the Caldwell Food Technology Center and finished her career as interim District III Extension Director. She received numerous awards and citations throughout her career. Two of her most cherished were: her and Wes being asked to serve as the Cassia County Fair and Rodeo Parade Grand Marshals and being chosen “Grandmother of the Year” in Minidoka County.
In the summer of 1982, Joan accepted the Lord as her personal savior and started her walk with God. When confronted with news her life was coming to an end, she accepted it with a level of grace and character that inspired everyone around her.
Joan is survived by her loving husband Wes, sister-in-law Joanna Charboneau, sister-in-law Linda Kelly, nephews Devan, Ryan, Jordan(Josie) and their twins, great nephew Von and great niece Bridget. She is preceded in death by her parents E.C. & Margret Kelly, brother Kent and brother-in-law Dan Charboneau.
Joan would like to thank her family, friends, church family and Hospice Visions for all their love and support.
Joan and family have requested no prior viewing. A Celebration of her life will be held at 11:00a.m. Monday, June 10, 2019 at the First Christian, Praise Chapel Church, 1100 8th Street in Rupert. The family suggest, in lieu of flowers a donation be made to either the Cassia or Minidoka County 4-H programs or to the Paul Congregational Church. Services are under the direction of Morrison Funeral Home, 188 South Hwy 24 in Rupert.
Condolences for Joan Parr
From: Judy Schroeder
I am so sorry to hear about Joan's death. Like so many others, I met Joan through 4-h after we left Burley, I saw Joan through the years at various FCS functions. She was truly a wonderful person. I know that I never saw Joan without a smile on her face. she was friendly, compassionate, and funny. my heart goes out to you. she is now smiling in heaven.
From: Charlene Hadden
Go in peace my friend. We spent many days with 4-h and extension programs. You taught me many lessons along the way and we certainly shared our moments of laughter and giggles. I will miss our not so frequent letters bit just knowing you are watching over us will keep my memories alive. I love you.
From: Robin Hadeler
My thoughts and prayers are with Wes, family and extended family. God Bless.
From: Galen and Jo Parr
Joan was a shining star in the family. always a kind word and a smile on her face. She will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Wes, during this time. LOVE Galen and Jo
From: Tawnya Clayville-Tracy
We will miss Joan like no other. She touched many lives through Her work at the 4-H Extension office. I grew up in 4-H and am still very active in 4-H today because of Joan's positive influence. I have always loved visiting with her and she always remembered me any time I eve saw her. The world is DEFINITELY a better place because of Joan.
From: Shelley Telleria
I loved this woman, always wore a smile, always the professional. she lead by example with a heart of gold. May the family grief be be short, and the family shine with pride of her legacy.
From: Christy Tracy Williamson
I will sorely miss my sweet friend and mentor. From the summer she became my "grain-harvest mom" I could always look to her for love, wisdom, and encouragement. She championed the role of mothers and I always left our visits feeling strengthened and more clear and focused on where my priorities should be. We may not have shared the same religion, but I felt that we shared the same faith. I saw her live what she believed and it made me want to be a better person. I love you Joan and Wes.
From: Terri Smith
So sorry to hear about Joan's passing. She was a truly beautiful soul, a light that will never dim! God bless you Wes and family!
From: Vicki Biggerstaff Hepworth
So many years have passed, but this lady was tireless in her love for 4-h and the youth in it. No one could be in a bad mood with Joan anywhere near. Her constant upbeat demeanor did not have any room for negativity. I can still remember her contagious smile. Rest in peace, Joan. You made quite a positive difference in this thing we call life.
From: Cyndi Carrigan
Joan was always an inspiration to me throughout all my challenges in life she always gave me positive reinforcement and told me how proud she was of me. I truly loved her and will miss her everyday. My thoughts and prayers go out to her one and only Wes.
From: Linda A. Croft
I always enjoyed Joan's talks, whether about food safety or her trip to England. Her knowledge, joy of life and sense of humor always came through. Joan, May you rest in peace until we meet again at Jesus feet.
From: Sandi Eyman
To wes and all the extended family
I send my heart felt sympathy to all of you. joan was a most beloved friend. Her never failing kindness, GENEROSITY and positive attitude will be greatly missed. I thought of her as my idaho sister. joan is, and always will be, the most BRILLIANT gem of my idaho memories. thank you for sharing her with me.
From: Vesnelle B Rorris
Joan was a wonderful friend, she and wes kept one of our sons while we went on a mission, think all had a grand time. she was a very special person and when we moved back to new mexico we hated to leave both of them.
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