Joan F. Mares

Joan was born October 18. 1946 to Adolph and Wilma Mares of North Bend, NE. She passed away suddenly at her home on July 12, 2023. The family moved to Fremont in 1960 where Joan attended Fremont High School graduating in 1964. She then attended Midland Lutheran College graduating in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science degree. She went on to attend the University of Nebraska Medical Center obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology in 1969. Joan then began her career at UNMC working as a medical technologist. Soon she became a teacher for new classes of students and eventually became the Hematology Department Manager, staying at that position until her retirement in January 2011.

Joan spent the past twenty five or so years battling the effects of Multiple Sclerosis, a disease that degenerates nerve tissue causing loss of muscle function and eventually other functions. The disabling effects of MS were certainly a hindrance to Joan’s lifestyle but with the help of modern medicine and the aid given by her sister Judy and home health care attendants, Joan was able to remain in independent living and still was walking with use of a walker until the end.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents and was survived by her twin sister, Judy (Kenneth) Von Seggern of Omaha, sister Carlene (Bruce) Keim of Syracuse, NE., and her nieces and nephews:

Jill (Daron) Ailts, Sioux Falls, SD.

Adan, Maya, and Zach

Jon (Jana) Von Seggern, Lenexa, KS.

Vivian and Ellie

Brian Keim, Smithville MO.

Becky (Mark) Beerinstrauch, Las Vegas, NV.

Loey

Tim (Abbey) Keim, Syracuse, NE.

Stella, Charlie Sue, and Jackson