Joanne Neprud

Joanne L. Neprud, age 86, passed away from the effects of Vascular Dementia at Orchard Crest Retirement Community in Spokane Valley, WA on May 07, 2025.  She was one of four children born to Carl and Ruth Wegeleben. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers Robert (Bob) and Johnny. Sister, Shirley (John) Wilson of Cottage Grove, OR is only surviving sibling.

Joanne was born in Deer Park, WA and lived on the family farm near Chattaroy, WA until 18 years of age. While attending high school she would often spend some of her summers helping her grandfather work in his orchard on Green Bluff. Joanne excelled academically in high school.  She participated in many high school clubs but cheerleading was her favorite.  Joanne took special interest in a handsome basketball player who showed her much kindness after a serious injury at a game. August 04, 1957 she married Gerald J. Neprud, (said basketball player). Gerald and Joanne enjoyed 67 years filled with love and affection for one another. She is survived by her husband and two sons, Eric (Renae) Neprud of Kansas City, MO and Duane (LaRae) Neprud of Billings, MT.  Four grandchildren followed, (Truman, Steven (Kindra), Ellie (Patrick), Addison and two great grandchildren (Chloe and Lawson). Joanne’s family was always a very important part of her life.

After high school Joanne attended accounting school before going to work for General Motors where she had a 23 year career.  Joanne loved to sew.  She made quilts for her grandchildren and clothes for Ellie when she broke her elbow.  She fashioned beautiful square dance costumes for Jerry and herself.  It was a favorite past time for 25 years leading them to attend a national convention in Canada.  The Montana and Colorado mountains were frequent travel destinations for hiking, camping and cross-country skiing. After retirement in 1992, they spent the next 20 years traveling the US, Canada and Alaska in their RV seeing the country, square dancing and visiting family.

The Orchard Crest Retirement Community was home for the last four years. It was a comfortable space with welcoming staff and residents.  Joanne enjoyed attending a wide variety of activities.

Memorial services are planned for Saturday, June 28, 2025,

at the Fairmount Memorial Chapel at 11:00 a.m. 5200 W. Wellesley, Spokane, WA 99205.