Joan Ansink, Elgin, Iowa formerly Waukegan, Illinois, June 6, 2026

Joan was first and foremost a wife of two husbands (not at the same time), and a mother to 4 sons and 2 daughters a step mother to two. She was a sewer, crocheter and a prolific knitter, knitting and crocheting countless sweaters, ponchos, hats, scarves; the list goes on.

Joan’s sewing skills were especially admired when she and her daughter would stroll through downtown Evanston wearing matching homemade paisley jumpers. They certainly turned heads—and yes, they looked terrific doing it.

Joan was also an accomplished musician, having graduated from Chicago Music College with a major in piano. For many years, she served as the women’s choir director and organist at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Evanston. During her tenure, the men’s and women’s choirs even recorded an LP album, a notable achievement for the time.

Besides classical and church music, Joan could play many a lively ragtime tune. She also accompanied other musicians during performances, as well as her relatives when they gathered to sing around the piano.

After her children were grown, Joan married a wonderful man named Hal Ansink. Together, Joan and Hal traveled the world, sharing many adventures and creating cherished memories along the way. They loved each other deeply and were happily married for 30 years, building a life filled with companionship, laughter, and devotion.

Joan is survived by all of her children, step children, many grand and great grandkids. She was loved and will be missed.