Joan Elizabeth Elson Walter, 84, of North Platte, NE, passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2013, at Linden Court in North Platte.

Joan was born March 22, 1929, in Blair, NE to Layland Fred and Mildred Wilhelmena Koopman States. The family moved to North Platte in 1930 where she grew up and graduated from North Platte High School in 1947. Joan then attended Dana College in Blair for two years.

On June 18, 1951, Joan married Clarence Rolland “Rod” Elson in North Platte where they made their home. She taught kindergarten at Jefferson Elementary for two years then operated Story Book Preschool for 10 years. Joan had a life membership in Campfire Girls and was their office manager for 17 years. She was also office manager for States and States Dental for six years.

After Rod passed away in 1979, Joan married Iven R. Walter on March 22, 1985, in North Platte. He preceded her in death in 1986.

Joan was a member of the First United Methodist Church and a life member of U.M.W. and the PTA. She was also a member of the Retired Teacher’s Association, R.S.V.P and was a member of P.E.O. for over 40 years. Faith, family and friends were the most important things to Joan.

She is survived by her daughter, Susan “Sue” (Roger) Eggleston, daughter-in-law, Lauri Elson, brother, Jim (Mary) States and sister-in-law, Jean States, all of North Platte; a stepdaughter, Anne (Jack) Brewer, of New Mexico; four granddaughters, Karena (D.J.) Plautz, Stephanie Eggleston, Beth (Jamie) Tabares and Kate Elson; four great-grandchildren, Alexis Bacon, Gabby and Hayley Plautz and Lucas Tabares; several nieces, nephews and other family; and her special little dog, Daisy, who brought much happiness to Joan.

Also preceding her in death was her son, Rich Elson; a brother, Jerry States; her sister, Jean States; and her parents, Layland and Mildred States.

Cremation was chosen. A memorial service and inurnment will be at a later date. The memorial book may be signed from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday at Odean Colonial Chapel At C & Sycamore or online at odeanchapel.com. Memorials are suggested to the United Methodist Women or the North Platte Animal Shelter. Odean Colonial Chapel At C & Sycamore is in charge of arrangements.