Joan Minsel Wilson, 90, of Elkhart, went home to be with the Lord on January 23, 2017. Joan was a Fourth of July baby, born in 1926 to Charles and Mary Bonewitz of Huntington, IN. Patriotism was a way of life from early on, with her father serving in World War I and two brothers serving in World War II. As the only daughter with three brothers now deceased, Joan graduated in 1944 from Rock Creek High School. She then attended Indiana University where she pledged Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority and majored in drama. Her greatest memories in theater were the portrayal of Ethel Toffelmier in "Music Man" at the Bristol Opera House, and at the age of 84, a role in a Neil Simon play called "Rumors" in the local theater at Orange Beach, Alabama.

Joan married James "Jim" Minsel in 1947, and settled in Elkhart, IN where Jim worked many years in partnership with Fortino and Minsel Realty. Their four children are Diane Christenson (Al), Steve Minsel (Jan), Kim Galyen (Jeff), and Heather Atwell (Chuck). There are seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

After Jim's untimely death in 1983, Joan married Robert "Bob" Wilson in 1990. Her step-children include Sharon Godwin (Jack), Deb Whitmeyer (Bill), and Richard Wilson (Kathy). There are also five step-grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Robert passed away in 2011. Joan loved the Lord and was an active member at Trinity United Methodist Church. She was asked to read the Scripture in church many times and relished the opportunity to serve. She was involved in many activities throughout the years which include: A Board member for the YMCA, Hospital Auxiliary, 4 Arts Club, Athena Club (President), Red Hats, and volunteering with "Great Books" at Weston Elementary School. Joan was an artist, too, who loved to create whimsical pictures and portraits in mediums such as charcoal, pastels, and oil paint. Joan was a loyal and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Many have been blessed with Joan's good humor, smile, and encouraging words. She was an "overcomer", facing many challenges throughout her life with a positive attitude and faith in God. Her greatest memories were summers at the cottage with family and friends, pontoon rides on Lake Simonton, cruises, boating with Bob on Lake Michigan, camping trips in their RV, and going to Orange Beach, AL in the winter months.

Friends may call from 4 pm until 7 pm, Thursday, January 26, 2017 at Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home, and from 9 am until the 10 am funeral service Friday, January 27, 2017 at Trinity United Methodist Church with Pastor Sam Needham officiating. Burial will follow at Rice Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Faith Mission and Center for Hospice Care.