Joan Frank, 93

It is with heavy hearts we share the news of the passing of our mother, Joan LaVonne Orstad Frank, on Dec. 16, 2023.

Born May 14, 1929, to Olaf and Laura Orstad and raised in Beach, N.D., she never forgot the lessons her prairie upbringing taught her: work hard, do the job right the first time, always be honest and loyal. She did her best to instill those values and an independent spirit in her three daughters.

After graduating from Golva High School, Joan moved to Billings, Mont., to attend business college. There she met Wilbert Frank and they married on Feb. 10, 1951. They later moved to Spokane, where their children were born.

Joan was an avid gardener, and her roses were known to stop traffic. She was also a gifted seamstress, owning the Pin Hook Custom Drapery shop in Coeur d’Alene for many years. After retiring, she spent countless hours organizing family photos into beautiful albums, complete with memories and historical detail going back generations. She left a precious record of family history.

Even as her memory faded, Joan kept her sense of humor. Here’s her recipe for Elephant Stew:

1 elephant, cut into bite-size pieces. This should take about two months.

2 rabbits – optional

Salt & pepper

Cook for about four weeks at 465 degrees until tender. Serves 3,800. If more are expected, two rabbits may be added but only if necessary, as most people do not like to find a hare in their stew.

Joan was preceded in death by her father and mother, sisters Dolores Kremers and Myrna Farstreet, her husband, Wilbert, and adopted son Dave. She is survived by her daughters, Debra, Robyn, Karen (Bob) and four-legged family members Bailey, Kylie and Blue.

Special thanks to everyone at Pacifica Courtyard for the exceptional attention and care they provided. A heartfelt thank you to Schneidmiller Hospice House for their kindness and devotion to taking care of every detail.

Remember Me

Remember me when the flowers bloom early in the spring.

Remember me on sunny days in the fun that summer brings.

Remember me in the fall, as you walk through leaves of gold.

And in the wintertime, remember me in the stories that are told.

But most of all remember each day right from the start,

I will be forever near, for I live within your heart.

— Judith Karen Bulock

A private memorial service will be held when the flowers bloom in the spring.

Arrangements provided by Yates Funeral Home. www.yatesfuneralhomes.com