Joan Mae Stiefvater

Joan Mae (Wahle) Stiefvater earned her angel wings on August 28, 2024 at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital in Mitchell, SD at the the age of 96.  Funeral services will be Monday, September 2, 2024 at 10:30 am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Salem.  Visitation will begin at 6 pm with a 7 pm prayer service on Sunday, September 1, 2024 at Kinzley Funeral Home in Salem.

Joan Mae was born on May 28, 1928.  She was adopted by Joseph and Leona Wahle of Salem, SD.  She joined another adopted sibling, brother Vearl.  She grew up on a farm southwest of Salem. She graduated from St. Mary’s School in 1947.  She loved going to dances and would often hop a freight train with friends to get to those dances.

On May 2, 1949 she married Harold Stiefvater of Salem, SD.  She was a homemaker and mother of 10 children.  She and Harold lived & worked on the farm until 1998 when they moved into town.   Joan Mae was a 4-H Leader of the “Best Better Club” for over 10 years.  She was a devoted and active member of St. Mary’s Church having served on the Altar Society and Christian Mothers.  She was an avid quilter and was one the many ladies who helped create the St. Mary’s Centennial Quilt.  She volunteered many hours at Colonial Manor in Salem.  She also enjoyed playing cards and belonged to the card club “Sparkle and Spice”.  She liked to sew, paint, bake and especially spend time with family.

Joan Mae was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Leona Wahle, brother Vearl, sons Daniel and Ronald, daughter-in-law Jean (David).

She is survived by her husband of 75 years; Harold, as well as sons David of Salem; Bob (Connie), Garretson; Brad (Jill) Salem; Nick, Boulder, Wyoming; Ken, Watertown and daughters Nannette, Spearfish; Kathy, Sturgis and Mary, Piedmont. She also leaves 7 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild and many nieces and nephews.

Her family will forever treasure her witty sense of humor and caring heart.