Joan K. Gleason

Age 91 of St. Paul, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on April 28, 2023.

Preceded in death by husband, John “Jack” Lennon Gleason; grandsons, Timothy Gleason Tomassoni, John Joseph Udvig; brother, Robert Parker (Bruce Hannah); son-in-law, Klaus Guenther-Gleason.  Survived by daughters, Kathy (Joe) Udvig, Patricia Guenther-Gleason, Jean Gleason, Jane Gleason (Richard Tomassoni), Pam Gleason (John Cannon); 9 grandchildren, Sara, Katy (Pierre), Amy (Travis), Annie, Brian (Ali), Eric (Oscar), Wes, Will, Cassie (Mitchell); and 7 great-grandchildren, Emma, Emery, Joelle, Tiernan, Cullen, Parker, Isla; brother-in-law, Neil Bealka, and many nieces and nephews. 

Joan will be remembered for her love and devotion to family, her artistry, intelligence, and sharp wit. Her creativity and cleverness enlivened everything she did – be it painting, gardening, cooking, decorating, or caretaking. Born and raised in a musical household in St. Paul, she played the piano beautifully by ear and loved to sing, claiming it was the “best pulmonary exercise ever.” Up to her last day, singing sustained her as she entertained visitors by recalling the lyrics to pretty much any song from the early 1900s.

While a student at the University of Minnesota, Joan met her future husband, Jack. Her life soon changed course from pursuing a degree in art to raising a family, yet her talents continued to flourish. She inspired a love of the arts in her five daughters, and as an empty nester, she returned to taking painting classes in oils and watercolor. In her later years, she took to sketching still lifes and portraits on a regular basis.

Over the years, Joan enjoyed the outdoors, going to the lake with family and traveling with Jack. Her trips to San Francisco to be with her brother Bob and his partner Bruce were an annual highlight, which always included a visit to the opera. She cherished her time spent with good friends – whether playing bridge, dining out, taking up bowling or volunteering. She was an avid reader, was keen on current events and enjoyed classic films, crossword puzzles, Wordscapes and the Minnesota Twins.

Joan was a strong, smart and thoughtful woman. A trustworthy, unintrusive mother and friend, she offered sage advice – but usually, just when asked. She exemplified the importance of taking care of oneself, while also providing loving, dutiful care for her family, her aging father, and her husband Jack who suffered and eventually died from Alzheimer’s. It was only fitting that in the end, she could be doted on by her daughters and the amazing care team at the Gardens of Episcopal Homes and Grace Hospice. Joan touched so many with her kindness, authenticity, and unique sense of humor. She will be forever missed.

Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM Monday, May 8 with visitation starting one hour prior at 9:30 AM at Maternity of Mary Catholic, 1414 N. Dale St., St. Paul.  Immediately following the Mass, a reception will be held in Sirba Hall at the church for a time of sharing, food and fellowship. Private interment at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to the Emergency Assistance Fund for caregivers at Episcopal Homes, Grace Hospice,  American Lung Association, or a charity of your choice.