Joan Esther Knutson, 93

Joan Knutson passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on Dec. 31, 2023, at her home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, with her children by her side. She was born in Glen Elder, Kan., in 1930 to Paul J.B. Ellis and Ruth Ellen (Huling) Ellis.

She graduated from Thermopolis High School in 1948, when a young man asked her hand in marriage. She made John Faulstich wait three days before saying yes. They remained in Thermopolis, Wyo., until he died in 1953 in a work accident.

Joan moved to Coeur d’Alene with two young children to stay with her older sister. Their neighbor played matchmaker with her nephew, and Joan married Conrad Knutson in 1954, moving into the home he built. Joan joined her three children at the kitchen table doing homework when she started cosmetology school, receiving her certificate in 1968. She went on to own The Hair Affair beauty shop until she retired. Joan was an accomplished bowler with numerous trophies and awards. She enjoyed camping, gardening, sewing, knitting and being a mother.

She was a lifelong member of Christ the King Lutheran Church.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents; husbands John Faulstich and Conrad Knutson; brothers Paul Jr. (Barbara) and George; sisters Mary (Paul) Snider, Pauline (Carl) Tackett, Elizabeth (Ray) Mayfield and Alice Marie.

Joan is survived by her brother, Chester (Eunice) Ellis of Tacoma, Wash.; children Dennis Faulstich of Jacksonville, Fla., Carolyn Kiehn of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Chris (Connie) Knutson of Tigard, Ore.; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

At her request, there will be no service.