Northup, Joan L.

Joan L. Northup, 74, of Cedar Rapids passed away peacefully on Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013, at Living Center West in Cedar Rapids, following a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 18, at Lensing's Oak Hill, 210 Holiday Rd., in Coralville. Visitation will be on Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. at Lensing's Oak Hill.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to The National Parkinson's Foundation.

Joan was born Jan. 16, 1939, in Greeley, Colo., the daughter of David and Laura (Utter) Bauer. She grew up in Greeley, graduated from Greeley High School and attended college in Greeley and also in Columbia, Mo. In 1965, Joan moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa and worked for a number of years as a secretary for Stamats Publishing. On May 25, 1978, Joan married Earl Northup in Sigourney.

Joan was a vibrant lady who enjoyed many activities, such as needlework, camping, playing the piano, singing with her sister Martha, and spending the winter months with Earl in Texas. She also loved butterflies and enjoyed teaching her grandchildren the mastery of Nintendo games.

For over 46 years, Joan was a dedicated member of The Order of The Eastern Star and reached the position of Past Worthy Matron.

Survivors include her husband, Earl of Cedar Rapids; a son, Lynn Erickson of Cedar Rapids; two daughters, Ann Martin (Dennis) of Lafayette, Ind., and Dawn Hibbard (Bryce) of Louisville, Ky.; a brother, Del Moore (Margaret) of Iowa City; a sister, Martha Fosmire (Carl) of Arvada, Colo.; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and a niece, Sarah Heck.

Online condolences may be directed to www.lensingfuneral.com.

Published Feb. 16, 2013 in The Gazette