Joan Eloise Edman's Obituary
Joan Eloise Edman, 86, of Fort Myers, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 14, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Joan was born on September 7, 1938, in Elkhart, Indiana, to Willis and Wanda (Neidballa) Risser. She brought joy and warmth to all who knew her.
Joan was a graduate of Concord High School, where she showcased her leadership as class treasurer and earned accolades for her impressive baton twirling skills. After completing nursing school, she worked as a registered nurse for private doctors in Elkhart for two years before dedicating herself to raising her beloved children.
Her creative spirit shone through in her love of knitting, crafting afghans cherished by her family. Joan also shared wonderful adventures with her husband, Ron, boating on Lake Michigan and embarking on ambitious trips from Fort Myers to Mackinac Island, Michigan, and even Baltimore, Maryland, navigating the Potomac River to Washington, D.C.
An avid outdoorswoman, Joan found joy in hiking the mountains of North Carolina and had an undeniable talent for fishing, often outpacing her husband in their friendly competitions. In Indiana, she nurtured a flourishing garden and proudly preserved her harvest through canning for the winter months.
Joan's greatest treasure was her family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Ronald Edman; her two loving children, Fred Edman (Kelly) of Fort Myers and Deb Burkholder of Larkspur, Colorado; and her cherished grandchildren: Kyle Burkholder, Kevin Edman (Julianna), Brian Edman (Kaela), Jeff Edman, Kristen Ferguson (Esai), Mackenzie Guffey (Sean), Brianna Edman, and Hannah Edman.
Joan's family has entrusted Fort Myers Memorial Gardens with the tender care of her final arrangements. There will be a private service held in Joan's honor at a later date.
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