Joan Arlene Severson

Joan Arlene Washnesky Ostlund Severson, age 95. Born November 24th, 1930 and died September 12th, 2026. Her parents were Albert and Eileen (McMillan) Washnesky.

Joan Graduated from Duluth Central High School in 1948. She then worked as a secretary in various schools in Duluth. She married Wally Ostlund in 1950. She also had worked at UMD and Timber Producers Association. She was a lifelong member of Peace U.C.C. Church, where she sang in the choir and served on many committees.

Joan’s interests included many years at the Island Lake Cabin, fishing, gardening, playing the organ, and painting.

Wally passed away in 1977. She married Wesley Severson in 1981, they enjoyed traveling in the camper. She lived in her home for 60 years on Artavia Street in Kenwood, where many wonderful neighbors surrounded her. Her last 5 years were spent at Mount Royal Pine III assisted living. The family wants to thank the staff for the wonderful care and love she was given.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister Joyce Clement; and brother-in-law Rodney Clement; and husbands Wally and Wes.

Joan is survived by her daughters, Carol (Joe) Crowe and Nancy (Tim) Cameron; sister, Mary (Ken) Wergeland; stepdaughter, Cheryl (Randy) Bennett; stepson, Bill Severson; grandchildren, Tonya (Shane) Parks, Lisa (Jay) South, Jessica (Eliseo) Garcia, Christina (Ian) Crowe, and Jonathan Bennett; 11 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Joans service will be held at Peace UCC Church, Saturday September 19th, with a 1pm visitation and funeral service at 2pm. Burial to follow at Park Hill Cemetery.

Memorials may be made out to Peace UCC Church in Duluth.