Joan F. Murrie, age 86, of Tomah, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, February 2, 2025. She was born on March 8, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, to Edward and Mary Ellen (Iglehart) Jackson. Joan’s life was marked by her warmth, humor, and an enduring love for those around her.
A dedicated caregiver, Joan worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant in hospitals, nursing homes, and private homes. Her gentle smile and compassionate presence left a lasting impression on the many lives she touched throughout her career.
Joan found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved gambling and cherished playing games with her family, always bringing laughter and light to every gathering. Those who knew Joan remember her as kind-hearted, funny, and thoughtful—a woman whose smile could brighten any room.
She is survived by her children: Dennis (Liz) Palmer of Brandon, FL; Patrick (Penny) Palmer of La Farge, WI; Lisa Palmer (Mike Ciecierski) of Tomah, WI; Kristine Haase of Genoa City, WI; and Laura Allen of Tomah, WI. Joan’s legacy also lives on through her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is further survived by her younger sister Karen (Keith) Brown; as well as many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.
Joan was preceded in death by her husband Len Murrie; her former husband and father of her children George Palmer; her son Edward J. Palmer; and her identical twin sister Jean. The bond between Jean and Joan was extraordinary. A connection so strong it remained unbroken even after Jean’s passing.
A Celebration of Joan’s Life will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Tomah. Pastor Shane Haynes will officiate. Family and friends are invited to visitation from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. The Torkelson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at
www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Joan’s memory will forever bring comfort to those who knew and loved her – a testament to a life lived with warmth and grace. She taught us to cherish every moment and to find the beauty in the smallest things. “Isn’t this nice?” will be her lasting legacy, reminding us to appreciate the beauty in our lives.
Torkelson Funeral Home
