Joan Myrtle Zelmer

Joan Larson Zelmer 96, was born in Davenport, Iowa on July 19, 1929, to Ludwig and Myrtle Larson. She passed away on Dec. 13, 2025 in Salem, Ore. surrounded by her children. She grew up with her parents and brother, Willard in Rochester, Minnesota, and graduated from Rochester High School in 1947.

While working as a secretary in Rochester, Joan met and married Stanton Zelmer in 1949. They moved to Salem, Oregon in 1951 and shared 52 years of marriage until his passing in 2002. They had three children, five grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Joan lived for over 60 years in the house Stan built for her.

A poster child for motherhood Joan was actively involved in her children’s education and well being, taking central roles in PTA, school activities, Campfire Girls and Boy Scout projects. She loved everything about her family and they spent many weekends together camping and boating. After her children were grown she worked as a secretary for Willamette Council of Campfire Girls and volunteered at the Elsinore Theater.

Joan traveled to many exciting destinations including China, Japan, Russia, Egypt, Australia, India and numerous European countries. She took each of her grandchildren to Europe after their high school graduations.

Joan was a devoted member of First United Methodist Church for 72 years. Also, of the Salem Zenith Club, Salem Fuchsia Club and Red Hots Square Dance Club. Other interests were cooking, sewing, tole painting, playing bridge, gardening and reading. She loved volunteering at Ark Angels Christian School in her 80’s and 90’s.

Joan is predeceased by her parents, her brother and grandson, Grant Abrahamson. She is survived by her children Lark Abrahamson, Robin Conard (John), Todd Zelmer (Colleen) and son-in-law Mel Abrahamson, grandchildren Melanie Sommer (Jered), Krista Zade (Eric), David Zelmer (Hannah), Michelle Merritt (Josh), great grandchildren, Andrew, Alaina, Samantha, Silas, Madelyn, Benjamin, Ezra and Guinevere. All living in Salem, Oregon.

Joan will be remembered for her radiant smile, her loving heart, her positive attitude and the kindness she shared with everyone she met.

A Celebration of Life will be held at First United Methodist Church of Salem on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026 @ 1:00 pm.