Joan Amsden, 87, of Williston, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Bethel Lutheran Home on Saturday, October 20, 2018.

Joan L. Amsden was born, raised and educated in Dickinson, ND. She was the third daughter of Joseph and Loretta (Paddock) Reilly.

Joan graduated from Dickinson State College, where she met George. She taught one year in Culbertson, MT. They were married June 13, 1953 in Dickinson. Joan drove to Gladstone, ND to teach while George finished college the next year. They then moved to Hazen, ND, where George taught and coached. In the summer of 1957, Williston became their home. After several years of being a homemaker, Joan began teaching college English at Old Central School. She then became a full time instructor at UND-Williston. Joan took great pride in the success of her students, always pleased when former students remembered her.

Joan felt blessed to have all her grandchildren grow up in Williston. One of her passions was playing Bridge. She belonged to many Bridge clubs, especially enjoying the Ladies on Friday. Joan had a gentle quiet soul with great determination.

Joan is survived by her daughter, Carol (Sanford) Qvale; their sons, Brian (Misty) and Brent (Melisa); her son Tim (Lorri) Amsden; their daughters, Erin (Albert) Gibson, Malissa (Aaron) Custer and Krista (Jesse) Pierce; her sister Elvira Reid; eight great grandchildren and her niece, Margaret Grant.

She was preceded in death by her parents, newborn daughter, son, Terry, husband of 63 years George, sisters, Margaret Wade and Jean Lehmann. The family wishes to thank Bethel Home for their care and friendship.

Memorial Contribution