Joan Rose Ragan Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Joan Rose Ragan, 81, of Rockford died on April 7, 2017 in her home surrounded by her family. Born on November 18, 1935 in Hillsboro, WI. Daughter of Hadley and Gladys (Norwalk) Clark. Attended Rockford public schools. United in marriage to Billy Jack Ragan on December 26, 1952 in Pocahontas, AR. In her younger years, Joan worked at a veterinary clinic, where she learned to groom dogs, eventually opening her own grooming business. She was later employed as a medical receptionist for many years. She spent years doing genealogy of her husband’s and her own families. She enjoyed tending to her flower and vegetable gardens, knitting, creating beautiful baskets and refinishing heirloom furniture. Upon Bill’s declining health, she became his sole caretaker for three years. When Bill died, she joined Starting Over Airedale Rescue where she became the Illinois State Coordinator, and founded the micro-chip program. In late 2015, her health was declining and she passed the torch to younger members; knowing that the group would continue to love the dogs and place them in great homes. Survived by her children, Renee Lynn (Al) Silva of Rockford, Teresa (Len) Janeski of Monroe Center, Lisa Ragan of Rockford; grandchildren, Jered (Jen) Janeski, Ryan Janeski, Michelle Silva; great-grandchildren, Bailee Reece, and Skyler Janeski; sister, Rita (Joe) Ament of Mountain Home, AR; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Preceded in death by her husband and infant son, Danny. Celebration of Life on April 15, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services, 1340 S. Alpine Rd. Rockford - at Colonial Village. Chaplain Roland Brown of Northern Illinois Hospice will officiate. The family is grateful to Northern Illinois Hospice for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services assisted the family. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.

Joan Rose Ragan

November 18, 1935 - April 7, 2017