Katherine Joan Alpers, 86, of Traverse City, passed away on Tuesday July 24, 2018 at the French Manor Yorkshire.

Joan was born on April 21, 1932 in Frankfort, MI as one of ten children to the late Ragnar and Ellen (Stolson) Strom. She married the late Ronald "Ron" H. Alpers on Aug. 13, 1960 in Frankfort. Together they lovingly raised two wonderful children Scott and Ellen.

Joan was a school teacher in Kingsley and at St. Francis Schools. After her children were born she proudly chose to stay home as a loving mother. Over the years her students would approach her in public and she would always call them by name.

In her later years she enjoyed traveling with Ron around the country as a motor coach driver, along with spring break trips to Florida with her family.

For over 30 years, Ron and Joan owned the Cedar Tavern, where she developed long and lasting relationships with many people from all over the state.

Joan attended the Trinity Lutheran Church in Traverse City for many years until her illness restricted her from attending.

In her spare time, she enjoyed playing Bunko, shopping on QVC and collecting Birkenstock shoes.

Joan will be remembered fondly as the most caring and supportive mother, an awesome grandmother and a wonderful friend. Her smile, gentle personality and love for her shoes will be treasured forever.

Surviving Joan are her children Scott (Julie) Alpers of Kingsley; Ellen (Roger) Stachnik of Traverse City; grandchildren, Kyle, Kassidy, Alexis and Jacob; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joan is preceded in death by her parents and devoted husband Ron.

A visitation will be held on Monday, July 30, 2018 from 5-7pm at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home with a prayer service at 7pm. Kindly share thoughts and memories with Joan's family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .