JoAnn Fredenberg, 92

JoAnn Fredenberg, 92, was born in Minot, North Dakota, on August 8, 1933. She passed away early on July 10. She graduated high school in 1951 with a total of 12 students in her class.

She attended college in Minot from 1951 to 1953 to teach 5th grade. She taught for one year in both Whitefish and Columbia Falls. She spent two summers in Yellowstone and had to hitchhike to get around.

In Troy, Montana JoAnn met her husband, and they married on June 20, 1954. They happily welcomed three children Bill, Tom, and Julie. She dedicated her life to raising her family from there on out.

She married into a big family and enjoyed their live music and often went dancing. She was an accomplished gardener with raspberries, roses, and flowers. She enjoyed playing card games and camping at Tally Lake.

When she became a grandmother and great-grandmother, she showed them as much love as her own children. She would always go out of her way to make sure others were taken care of. Her huckleberry delight was always savored.

Preceded in death by her parents Kathryn and Ervin, husband Les, and children Bill, Tom, and Julie (Bryan). She is survived by her sister Mary; grandchildren Tyler, Josh, and Kayla; as well as her great-grandchildren Caleb, Keenan, and James. 

A celebration of life will be held July 30 at 10 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church in Whitefish. To send online condolences please visit JoAnn’s tribute page at: columbiamortuary.com. Columbia Mortuary is caring for the family.