May 19, 1936 — November 29, 2025
Marilyn “Joan” Schult of Eldora, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the Hubbard Care Center. Also, St Croix Hospice provided additional support to Joan and the family.
Joan was born in Franklin County at the Hampton Hospital on May 19, 1936, to Joseph Linn & Thelma (Fiddick) Simonsen. Joan grew up with a warm spirit and appreciation for simple joys that she carried throughout life. After her graduation from Hampton High School, she attended Iowa State Teacher’s College (Now UNI). She valued education (following her mother’s teaching career). and carried the lessons and friendships from her time throughout her life. While at college she met Raymond Schult. Ray and Joan were married in 1955. The happy couple moved to Davenport for Ray’s teaching job. In 1956 Joan and Ray welcomed their first child, Valerie, to their union. From there they moved to Latimer for Ray’s new teaching job. From there they had a second child, Joel, in 1958. In 1960, the family was on the move again to Grinnell for Ray’s teaching. The family grew some more having Hans in 1960, Jonathan in 1963 and Mari Beth in 1964 moving from Grinnell to Baxter for some years than to Eldora, where they stayed. The sixth child, Jenna was born in 1969. Her family continued to grow over the years, blessing her with many grandchildren and great grandchildren plus some great-great grandchildren, all whom she adored. She especially loved their visits and was famous among them for keeping an endless supply of juice boxes in hand.
Joan did work outside of the home when her children were older. Her favorite employment and long-lasting friendships were at the Eldora Manor and Valley View nursing homes. She was employed in the kitchens as cook and a dietary aid. Joan was a creative soul, crafting, giving, collector of buttons and vintage paper dolls. She would cherish coffee time with her friends and welcoming company into her home. She was also a proud member of the Red Hat Society, embracing the laughter and companionship it brought. Her heart was full and she shared. She was not one to forget to send a card for all occasions. She made sure she would comb the newspaper to cut out her children and grandchildren’s sports, grades, and any outside activities. Joan will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her kindness, humor and gentle hearts.
Left to cherish Joan’s memory are her children; Valerie (Richard Soesbe), Joel (Karen) Schult, Hans Schult, Jonathan (Lorie) Schult, Mari Beth Long, Jenna (Jim) Fox, many beloved grandchildren & great grandchildren; & her sister; Maren. Joan was preceded in death by Ray, and daughter-in law, LeLong “Janet” Schult.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to St. Croix Hospice Foundation, 6112 Chancellor Drive Cedar Falls, Iowa, 50613.
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