Joann Van Tassel Obituary

Joann Darlene Van Tassel was born on July 15, 1933, the youngest of four children born to Vern and Eloise (Bradley) Walker. She grew up on a farm near Ogallala, Nebraska. She attended rural country school through the 8th grade and then graduated from Ogallala High School in 1950.

As a young lady she helped her father and Uncle Earl Walker with their custom farming and combining and always took pride in the fact she could drive tractors and caterpillars. It was during one of those trips north into South Dakota that she met the love of her life Walter “Junior” Van Tassel. They were married October 26, 1952 and lived their entire life on the farm near Ottumwa, South Dakota. Walter and she established quite the seed business.

Joann enjoyed doing all types of crafts, but particularly liked wood burning. She was a member of the Ottumwa Ladies Extension Club and held many offices at the local and county levels. Later she was a member of the Tea Timers Club from Philip and enjoyed helping with the blood drives she sponsored.

Walter and Joann took many trips together, including a trip to China. She enjoyed sharing the photos of their adventures with everyone.

Joann is survived by her children: Steven (Susan) Van Tassel, Sandra (Dennis) Heaton, Linda (Ted) Clavel, and James (Brenda) Van Tassel; grandchildren: Terri (Jeff) Staben, Gina (Brian) Steinlicht, Jesse (Natalie) Heaton, Brady (Jennifer) Clavel, Krista (Tony) Brown, Michelle Van Tassel, LaRae (Tyler) Jacob, and Ryan Van Tassel; great-grandchildren: Michael Steinlicht, Megan Steinlicht, Erika Steinlicht, Leah Staben, Zoe Staben, Noah Heaton, Charlotte Heaton, and David Jacob; her sister Janet Schroder; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joann was preceded in death by her husband Walter Van Tassel; her parents; and siblings and in-laws: Vern and Eloise Walker, special Uncle Earl Walker, Robert Walker, Frieda Walker, Jean Walker Abrams, Jack Abrams, Fern Konst, and William Lee.

Visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, August 25, 2022 at Rush Funeral Home in Philip.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 26, at the United Church in Philip with Pastor Kathy Chesney officiating.

Interment will follow at the Masonic Cemetery in Philip.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

Cards and memorials may be sent to P.O. Box 40 Philip, SD 57567.

Guest Book

Dear Family, I just learned of Joann’s passing and it so saddens me. My thoughts are with all of you. We all grew up together. I so enjoyed every time at your mom and dads home. Our parents were best friends. Linda, you were my best friend. Joann was calm, her laugh was so great and so was her smile. It was a gift to know her. I think your dad and mom and my mom and dad are probably chuckling together right now. I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to all of you.
~ Mary Foland Manhattan Beach, California (8/24/2022)

Deepest sympathy.
~ Melody and Tony Kelly Philip sd (8/25/2022)

Our deepest sympathy to the Van Tassel family. Made many trips to Golden Willow Ranch over the years. Walter and Joann were some of the finest people I've ever known.
~ Kenneth & Linda McIlravy Philip (8/24/2022)

We just learned of the passing of your mom and wanted to let you know that we are so sorry. We know that God is holding you all in His hand to give you peace and strength.
~ Kenny and Robin Stoner Murdo, SD (9/6/2022)

My deepest sympathy to the Van Tassel family in the loss of Joann. May the love of family and friends help comfort you in the days ahead.
~ Karen Webb Rapid City SD (8/24/2022)

My thoughts an love are with you all. Your mother was a treasure. She lived her life well.
~ Marlana Ruth Jones Hatch Columbus, Ohio (8/23/2022)

We are very sorry for your loss.
~ Jason & Lisa Schofield Philip, SD (8/23/2022)

Special thoughts for the Van Tassel, Heaton, Clavel families.
~ Sandra Nantais Mission, TX (8/22/2022)

So sorry to hear about your mother. She was a great lady and will be deeply missed. Sending our sympathies, prayers and hugs.
~ Nancy Pekron Ehrhardt Brandon (8/22/2022)

So sorry for your loss. Joann was hard working, talented lady. God Bless
~ Ralph & Cathy Fiedler Sturgis, SD (8/22/2022)

Sending condolences to the Van Tassel family on the lose of your mother. May God provide you comfort, strength and healing in this time.
~ Patty Willoughby Ocala, FL (8/23/2022)

What a wonderful lady. She was always so gracious and always ready to stop and visit for a few minutes. I don't believe she ever knew a stranger for she always had a ready smile and a handshake. She will be missed. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
~ Don & Bobette Schofield Milesville, SD (8/26/2022)

I am so sorry for your loss. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Im so glad I had the opportunity to get to know JoAnn when she lived at Silverleaf. She was special lady with a big heart. I know she is happy in Heaven now.
~ Julie McLaughlin Midland (8/23/2022)

We are thinking of you folks during this difficult time. Hold on to all the memories.
~ Les & Joann Pearson Philip, SD (8/25/2022)

FL
~ Patty Ocala (8/23/2022)

Many thoughts and prayers for you all as you tell your Mother goodby.
~ Connie L Lee MISSION (8/23/2022)

A light has gone out, a joy has stilled when this lady's heart stopped. Her stories of her life delighted me and we laughed often together. She will be remembered and missed.
My prayers of great comfort are for you, her beloved family...her true treasures

~ Rebecca Essen Philip (8/22/2022)

Jim and family, please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your Mother. My prayers are with you. Glenn
~ Glenn Sealey Colome, SD (8/22/2022)

On behalf of the Schofield family I would like to extend our deepest sympathy. Joann was a pillar of the Ottumwa community and will be greatly missed. May God bless and keep you in this sad time.
~ Mary Hengstler Sundance Wy (8/24/2022)

Joann Van Tassel

of Midland, South Dakota, died on Sunday, August 21, 2022
at the Scotchman Living Center in Philip at the age of 89

Service Details

Guest Book

Flowers

Joann Van Tassel

of Midland, South Dakota, died on Sunday, August 21, 2022 at the Scotchman Living Center in Philip at the age of 89

Service Details

Guest Book

Flowers

of Midland, South Dakota, died on Sunday, August 21, 2022
at the Scotchman Living Center in Philip at the age of 89