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Joan Ford Wallick, identified individual

94-year-old Joan Claassen Ford Wallick, a resident of Big Horn, Wyoming, bid farewell on June 20, 2025. Originating from the humble town of Wellsburg, Iowa, she entered this world on May 13, 1931, under the wings of Lucille and Richard Claassen. Her formative years were spent during the...

Joan Ford Wallick, an individual identified in the text.
Joan Ford Wallick, an individual identified in the text.

Joan Ford Wallick, identified individual

Joan Claassen Ford Wallick, a woman of many accomplishments and warm spirit, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, at the age of 94 in Big Horn, Wyoming.

Born on May 13, 1931, in Wellsburg, Iowa, Joan grew up to be a remarkable individual. She graduated as valedictorian of her high school class in 1948 and went on to study biology and botany at Coe College. In 1952, she earned her B.A. in Biology.

During her time at Coe College, Joan met Wally Ford, a pilot in the U.S. Air Force. The two were married on November 7, 1953, at the Reformed Church in Wellsburg. Their union led them to Hampton, Virginia, and later to a ranch on the Powder River in Wyoming.

Joan was a woman of unique style, often seen in a denim skirt, fashionable blouse, favorite necklace, and concha belt. She had a deep love of reading and kept a wide-ranging collection of books. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she transformed her home with dazzling decorations.

Joan was a warm and welcoming hostess who made everyone feel at ease. She had a special love for the natural beauty of Belize, where she enjoyed birdwatching for 13 years. Joan was inducted into both Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi honor societies. In 1981, she earned her pilot's license and flew a Cessna 182 between the ranch and home.

Joan is survived by her sister Barbara Claassen, daughters Anne Montgomery and Dr. Sarah Wallick, stepchildren Robert L. Wallick, Jr., Kay Wallick, and step-grandchildren Will Wallick, Lee Wallick, and great-granddaughter Dakota Wren Richmond.

A Celebration of Life for Joan will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 4:00pm at the Brinton Museum. Online condolences may be written at www.kanefuneral.com. Champion Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

Despite the lack of a comprehensive biography, Joan's life was filled with achievements, love, and a zest for life that will be fondly remembered by those who knew her. Further details might be found in more detailed family or local historical records.

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