Joan Eliason

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joan Eliason, who died peacefully on December 15, 2025, at the age of 84, in Sheridan, Wyoming.

Joan was born on November 24, 1941, in Redfield, South Dakota. She met the love of her life, Leon, while attending high school in Rapid City, South Dakota. They were married in 1960. Joan was a dedicated wife and mother. Together they built the most loving family.

Her Catholic faith was her lifelong passion. She was received into the Secular Order of Carmelites, choosing the name Joan Mary Teresa of the Precious Blood.

Joan was known for her adventurous spirit, determination and resilience. She found great joy in the Catholic Church. She and Leon, were most proud of the contributions they made in the design and building of a Carmelite Monastery in Denmark, Wisconsin.

Joan found immense joy in her life in Sheridan, Wyoming. There she and Leon, fulfilled their dream of living in the west, raising horses and spending their retirement years with family.

Joan is survived by her loving spouse of 65 years, Leon; their children, Steven (Kim) Eliason, Susan (Dan) Burgess, Sr. Mary Elizabeth, Kari Eliason, Mary (Chris) Sorenson, Peter (Collette) Eliason. Fifteen grandchildren and six great, great-grandchildren, and one sister, Jean Sumption.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents Orren and Zona Olson and one grandchild, Eric Eliason.

Joan’s memory will be forever cherished by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of her faith, family, and a joyful spirit.

Funeral Arrangements

Rosary will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 9:30 A.M. with Mass to follow at 10:00 A.M., At Holy Name Catholic Church. Interment will follow Mass in the Juniper Heights section of the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. A Reception will be held at Champion Kane Funeral Home in the Reception Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Joan’s memory to The Monastery of the Holy Name of Jesus, 6100 Pepper Road, Denmark, Wisconsin, 54208.

Online condolences may be written at https://www.kanefuneral.com/. Champion Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.