Joan R. Wilcox

Joan Ruth Wilcox, 80, of Rochester, MN died Monday, November 13, 2017 at St. Marys Hospital. Joan was born January 13, 1937 to James "Jyp" and Ruth (Hanson) Cole in Gary, SD. Joan graduated from High School in Gary and attended college in Brookings, SD, St. Cloud State and Mankato State in MN where she received her Master's in Administration. She married Lee Nelson and they had two children. She was a librarian in Granite Falls, MN and was the Principal in Maynard, MN at the public school. Joan married Bruce Wilcox. She became super-intendant at Dover-Eyota Public Schools where she retired. After retirement Joan wintered for 11 years in Destin, FL. She married David H. Peden. Joan enjoyed volunteering at Paws & Claws and United Methodist Church. Joan is survived by her children, Kristine (Patrick) Stokes and David Nelson of Rochester, MN; one grandson, Jacob Oliver and one brother, James Cole of Gary, SD. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bruce Wilcox and her husband, David H. Peden. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 25, 2017 at Christ United Methodist Church (400 5th Avenue SW Rochester, MN). Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorials can be designated to Paws & Claws Humane Society. To share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600