Joan Miner

Private family services will be held at a later date for Joan Miner, age 79, of Spirit Lake.

Joan Elizabeth Miner, daughter of Robert and Lois (Swalm) Miner, was born on March 26, 1945, in Traer, Iowa.

Joan grew up in Superior, Iowa, and graduated from Estherville High School in 1963. She married Darrel Schnell, and together they raised three children while living in various communities across Iowa and Nebraska, including Ankeny, Red Oak, Grinnell, Fremont, and finally returning to Estherville in 1976. Once her children were grown, Joan made the lakes area her home.

Joan was a familiar face at many local businesses throughout the 25 years that she lived in Spirit Lake. Her warm smile and quick wit were most often seen at Shoppers Supply/Bomgaars, where she worked for over 15 years before retiring. Joan's checkout line was always the longest—she had an unmatched gift for gab, playful banter, and a knack for making every customer feel like family. Even after retiring, she was recognized wherever she went, a fact that brought her endless joy.

Joan’s passion for rescuing animals was a driving force in her life. Her home was a haven for creatures in need, and her love for the outdoors was evident in the time she spent caring for her plants and flowers. Swan Lake and the spillway were her favorite retreats. One of her proudest recent accomplishments was growing a tomato plant taller than herself—a feat she celebrated with a photograph, knowing it was a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence.

Joan had an affinity for the simple joys in life: feeding her backyard birds, nurturing vibrant flowers, and everything Jeep-related. Her family ties to Miner Motors, an AMC dealership owned by her father, cemented her love for Jeep vehicles. Everything Jeep. Jeep Cherokee, Jeep T-shirt, Jeep coffee mug, it didn’t matter. Joan’s love of purple was another signature trait. Everything purple. If it wasn’t purple, she painted it purple.

Joan passed away peacefully, at home, on December 30, 2024. Her life was one of resilience, joy, and connection. She will be remembered for her humor, kindness, and the love she shared with her family, friends, and her cherished animal companions.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Duane Schnell (Dawn); daughter, DeAnna Schnell; daughter, Jenny Schnell (Doug DeVore); grandchildren: Josh Ryan, Joel Ryan, Gracie Schnell, Seth Schnell, Brady DeVore, Macy DeVore; brother, Jerry Miner; sister, Julie Nelson as well as extended family and friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Lois Miner; brother, Jim Miner and sister-in-law, Judy Miner.