Joann Reksten, 97

Joann Marie “Jo” Reksten, age 97, of Polson, passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Dec. 11, 2025, in her beloved hometown.

Joann was cherished as a mother, friend, teacher and community member, and she will be fondly remembered for her great sense of humor, warmth, creativity and unwavering dedication to her family, friends and students.

Born April 14, 1928, in Polson, Joann took pride in her heritage as the granddaughter of Joseph Cline, one of Polson’s founding families, and the daughter of John and Amy Cline of Cline Motors. Her childhood was spent in the family’s notable “big white house” on 3rd Avenue – a home famously transported to Polson in pieces by train and lovingly reassembled by her family.

Joann graduated from Polson High School in 1946 and pursued higher education at the University of Montana in Missoula and later finished her degree in education at the University of Montana, Western, in Dillon, in 1964. Her teaching journey began in Opportunity, Montana, where she taught sixth grade from 1962 to 1964.

After relocating to Kalispell, Joann joined Evergreen Junior High, dedicating nearly 30 years to shaping and inspiring young minds. She retired in 1993, leaving a legacy of mentorship and encouragement. Joann’s students remembered her as patient, kind and deeply committed to their success.

In 1950, Joann married George Reksten. Together, they raised two daughters, Linda E. Reksten and Susan C. Reksten.

Family was always at the heart of Joann’s life. She attended every school event her daughters participated in, and her home was filled with love, laughter and the scent of her cooking much-loved pies and cookies.

Joann was a gifted artist and seamstress who found joy in painting with watercolors, crocheting, sewing clothes for the family, as well as curtains and doll clothes, and decorating her home. She loved fishing at Thompson River and always got a thrill when she caught a fish.

Joann also loved dancing, and hosting parties for friends, neighbors and colleagues. She loved dogs and especially Dunkin, who was by her side when she went to heaven. 

Her loyalty and generous spirit extended into the community, where she was active with the Polson Senior Citizens Center and volunteered at the Country Store. She also enjoyed playing bridge with friends.

Joann also supported children’s charities such as St. Jude and Shriners Hospitals for Children, as well as the Greater Polson Community Foundation.

Joann is survived by her daughters, Linda and Susan, and by the many students, colleagues, and friends whose lives she touched. Her legacy is one of faithful service, creativity, and unconditional love – a lasting inspiration to all who knew her.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. at The Lake Funeral Home, 101 6th Ave East, Polson. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Messages of condolence may be shared with the family online at lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.