January 24, 1941 – August 23, 2025
Joann Rae Hammarstedt, 84, of Mason City, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Good Shepherd Health Care Center.
A Graveside Service will be held at a later date at Memorial Park Cemetery, Mason City, Iowa.
Joann “Jo” was born on January 24, 1941, to William and Grace (Tiedeman) James. She grew up in Mason City and, at the age of 14, began helping at the family’s local grocery store, James’ Grocery. A proud member of Mason City High School’s Class of 1959, she went on to attend Mason City Junior College, where she completed the medical secretary program. Joann spent 15 years working as a receptionist for Dr. Orton before returning to school at age 50 to pursue her nursing degree. She then began a 25–year career at Good Shepherd, where she cared for countless residents with compassion and co–founded the Alzheimer’s Support Group.
On February 19, 1976, Joann married Darrell Hammarstedt. Together they built a loving home and raised three children.
Above all, Joann deeply loved her family. She was a gifted cook and baker, known for the meals and treats she lovingly prepared. She also had a passion for gardening and especially enjoyed tending to her flowers. Her home was always beautifully decorated for each holiday, with the Fourth of July and Christmas holding a special place in her heart.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Good Shepherd and St. Croix Hospice for the kindness and care they provided to Joann in recent months.
Those left to cherish memories of Joann are her loving husband, Darrell Hammarstedt; her children, Brian (Janine) Hammarstedt of Mason City, IA, Nancy Ruzicka of Altoona, IA, and Barbara (Ron) Nauman of Floyd, IA; grandchildren, Michele (Dan) Werts, Amanda (Nick) Steege, Rob Nauman, Matthew (Kelsey) Hammarstedt, David Ruzicka, and Brandy Nauman; seven great-grandchildren, Noah, Tayden, Jack, Derrick, Finn, Charlotte, and Emmalin; sisters, Chris Fitzsimmons of Granger, IA, and Rox Ann (Dick) Northrup of Mason City, IA; sister-in-law; Joanne DeBord of Urbandale, IA; as well as numerous friends and extended family members.
Joann is preceded in death by her parents, brothers and sister-in-law, Robert DeBord, Greg Fitzsimmons, Doyle (Donna) Yeutsy; as well as a son-in-law, Jason Ruzicka.
colonialchapels.com