Joan Lee Sorenson (Jacobson) age 63, died peacefully at her home in Greenfield, MN surrounded by her loving family on August 3, 2012 as a result of cancer. Joan was born July 14, 1949 in Minneapolis, MN to Harry and Juanita Jacobson (Hoffman). She graduated from Eden Prairie High School and studied Art and English at St. Cloud State University. Joan devoted her life to raising her children – she spent countless hours volunteering in the Rockford schools, as well as serving on the school board, and supporting her kids in their activities. She also opened her home and her heart to several children that were not her own, and helped many people through difficult parts of their lives – her door was always open. Joan enjoyed gardening – especially in her rose garden and her huge vegetable patch, reading, water color painting, and providing compassionate care to her many animal friends. She dearly loved her herd of 75 cows – each of them known by name. She loved lively (and sometimes heated!) discussions while entertaining friends, neighbors, and family at the farm and at Birch Lake. Joan loved to celebrate all occasions – she loved to give gifts and put “sprinkles” in her cards. Her grandchildren called her “Num Num” and enjoyed many tea parties, baking, creating art, and making treats with her.
Joan is survived by her beloved friend and companion, Curtis Johnson of Greenfield; her children, Erik (Kari) Sorenson of Delano, and Amy (Ben) Grenzer of Greenfield; grandchildren, Jacob, Andrew, Emma, and Chloe; sister-in-law, Barbara Rosedale; niece Emily (Dave) Igelman; great-nieces, Olive and Vivian; family friend, Jeremy Norman; and father of her children, Ken Sorenson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Juanita Jacobson and her brother, John Jacobson.
A visitation honoring Joan’s life was held on Thursday, August 9th from 12 noon until 2 o’clock at the Iten Funeral Home, 300 North 3rd Street, Delano, MN. Private memorial service and interment at Elmwood Cemetery in Rockford followed the visitation. Pallbearers were Curtis Johnson, Erik Sorenson, Benjamin Grenzer, Jacob Sorenson, Andrew Sorenson and Jeremy Norman.
Joan will be fondly remembered by all who knew her for her generous, loving nature.