Joan (Kesterman) Merritt was born in Sundance, WY, on March 18th, 1930 to Alfred and Georgina (Jeffries) Kesterman. She was raised in the
Black Hills and graduated from Central High School in Rapid City, South Dakota. Joan was a child care provider for 10 years, but her true passion
was her family. There was never a time when you called or showed up on her door step that she didn't have time for you. Her house always had
freshly baked cookies and was filled of love.

Her activities included knitting numerous slippers for her family and friends, crocheting, and baking, But her favorite past time was spent taking
care of her family.

Joan married Charles (Bud) Harrison on November 17th, 1951 until his death in 1959. They had three daughters, JoBeth and Julie who are still
living and Kathy who passed in January of 1959.

Joan then married James E. Merritt on September 20th, 1962; they had a son, Jim and a daughter, Jackie. The two were able to spend 42 wonderful years together and are now joined together again.

Joan, 82, passed away October 18th, surrounded by her family at home.

Survivors include: One son, James J. Merritt of Rapid City; three daughters, JoBeth Turner of Spearfish, SD, Jackie McKinnon of Denver, CO, and Julie VanBuskirk of Texas; two Brothers; George Kesterman of Arizona, and Bob Kesterman of California. Her family also includes: 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren and
many nieces and nephews.

Joan is preceded in death by both husbands, Charles Harrison and James Merritt; her parents, one daughter, one brother, and two sisters.

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