Joan Kathleen Bjork

Joan Kathleen Bjork passed away peacefully on July 4th, 2017 after a short illness at the age of 86. She resided at Clairmont Place in Decatur, GA for the past 7 years where she made many friends with both residents and staff. She was born in Elgin, IL and lived in Crystal Lake, IL for her entire childhood. After graduation from the University of Iowa, she married Don Bjork, the love of her life and together they moved throughout the country for both Don’s service in the USAF and for his career with National Lock Hardware. During their many moves she kept busy as a homemaker, substitute teacher and Sunday School leader. She leaves behind two daughters, Kim Benson (Eric) of Bear, DE and Karen Burns (David) of Decatur, GA; her grandchildren, Jenny Benson of Boston, MA, Mary Kate Benson of Wilmington, DE, Anna Burns of Decatur, GA and Ryan Burns of Decatur, GA; her brothers, Bill Fanter (Cynde) and Bob Fanter (Mary), both of Des Moines, IA; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; parents, William and Marian (Brown) Fanter; and sister, Lynn Alexander.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 22nd at 10 AM in Greenville, SC at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 2600 Wade Hampton Blvd, Greenville, SC 29615. Private interment will be in Woodstock, IL. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to the American Cancer Society in Joan’s name.