Joan Marie Minks, age 74, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Oakland Park Nursing Home in Thief River Falls.

Born in Cloquet, Minnesota, on July 22, 1951, to Reuben and Rose Marie (Nelson) Liimatainen, Joan was baptized and confirmed at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Cloquet. She graduated from Cloquet High School in 1969.

Joan married Dennis "Denny" Minks on January 11, 1975, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church. Joan and Denny shared a loving and devoted marriage for over 50 years. Their bond was built on faith, friendship, and mutual respect. Together, they created a warm and welcoming home, filled with laughter, love, and the comforting aroma of Joan's home cooking. Their partnership was a beautiful example of enduring commitment, and they faced life's joys and challenges side by side. Raising their son Brian was one of their greatest shared blessings, and Joan poured her heart into motherhood with unwavering love and care.

Joan spent her career in payroll accounting at Arctic Cat in Thief River Falls, where she was known for her dedication and precision. Outside of work, she was a talented homemaker and craftswoman—knitting, crocheting, and embroidering with care and creativity. Her cooking and baking brought joy to many, and she cherished time spent watching sports and sharing conversations with friends and family.

A devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church, Joan was active in many church groups and found deep fulfillment in her faith and community.

She is survived by her loving husband, Denny Minks of Thief River Falls; son Brian Minks of Grand Forks, ND; sisters Julie (Roger) Lyytinen of Cloquet, MN, and Jolene (Don) Wagner of Deer Creek, MN; sister-in-law Joan Minks of Princeton, MN; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Reuben and Rose Marie Liimatainen; and her in-laws, Erwin and Lylla Minks.

Her warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Joan's family would like to thank the Oakland Park Community Staff and the HIA Hospice Staff for their wonderful care.

Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 20, 2025 at Zion Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, MN with Reverend Kristin Ostercamp officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.