Joan Crandell Ryker

Joan Crandell [Hood-Larkin] Ryker was born in Spokane, Washington on August 4, 1934. She passed away on October 14, 2021 in Spokane, Washington. Joan graduated from North Central High School and continued her education by completing her B.A in psychology from Whitworth College, and her Master’s in counseling from Gonzaga University, and began her doctoral study at Washington State University.

She was a former member of the Garland Avenue Alliance Church, where she served in various roles, including Sunday School Superintendent, adult teacher, member of the choir, special music assistance, and board member. She is a current member of Shiloh Hills Fellowship.

Joan was a certified mental health counselor and ran her private practice from 1977 to 1994. She was employed by Catholic Family Service as coordinator of the Northeast Neighborhood Center, and was director of the NE, East, Elk, and Deer Park Centers.

Continuing her drive to assist people, Joan taught classes on depression for Spokane Falls Community College’s continuing education program. She also conducted group counseling and taught many seminars and classes.

Joan is survived by her husband Brian D. Ryker, grandchildren Wesley D. Hood III, Tabitha Marie Hood Wyatt, Evan S. Hood; step-children Michael Larkin, Christopher Larkin, Karen Sawyer, Laurie Gouin, Erik D. Ryker, Michelle Ryker Batsford; step-grandchildren Sean and Stephanie Thiesfeld-Hood; 11 additional Larkin family members; daughter-in-law Christy Hood; sister Marilyn Crandell Pontius; and three nephews, Tim, Jerry, and John Pontius, and the respective families. She was preceded in death by her son Wesley D. Hood Jr, husband Mike Larkin, and nephew Steve Pontius. A daughter named Marianne Hood, whom she was adopting, was also lost due to legal technicalities, but whom Joan has never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shiloh Hills Fellowship Church, or Ogden Hall in Spokane, Washington.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, November 6, 2021 at 12pm at Shiloh Hills Fellowship, located at 207 E Lincoln Rd, Spokane, WA 99208.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.BallandDodd.com for the Ryker family.