Joan Gareth Norby

Obituary - Joan G. Norby

February 8, 1937 – June 13, 2025

Remembering her kindness, twinkle in her eyes and her ready smile, we said goodbye to our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Joan Gareth Norby, on June 13, 2025.  Joan died peacefully at her home on the farm she loved.

Born February 8, 1937, to June (Eimers) and Allen Ramstedt, Joan had a happy childhood in Moscow, Idaho.  She enjoyed spending time with her extended family, at the family-owned clothing store, Creightons, and at the cabin on Everwell Bay on Lake Coeur d’Alene. 

While attending Moscow High School (MHS), Joan was elected to several school offices. She especially enjoyed serving as the Idaho State President of Future Homemakers of America and as Honored Queen of Job’s Daughters Bethel 11. 

After graduating from MHS, Joan attended the University of Idaho and was an active member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority.  While attending the U of I, she fell in love with the half back for the Vandal football team - Larry Neil Norby from Rupert.  Joan and Larry were married on August 11, 1956, and remained loyal Vandals all their lives. 

Joan will be remembered by many for her time as the secretary at Lincoln Elementary School and at the Recollections gift shop.  She was also a long-time member of PEO, which was very near and dear to her heart.  Her kindness and happy demeanor endeared her to many in our community. 

Spending time with family was very important to Joan.  She was always kind, loving, supportive and fun.  Joan is survived by her son, Bryan (Susan) Norby of Boise; daughter, Laura (Jeff) Clark of Rupert; grandchildren, Neil (Katie) Clark of Kimberly; Brad (Olivia) Clark of South Carolina; Taylor (Ryan) Erstad of Boise; Michael (Michael Shea) Norby of Boise; and seven great-grandchildren (Kennedy, Jaxon, James, William, Wesley, Patrick and Killian).  She is also survived by her brother, Jay (Colleen) Ramstedt and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and their families.

Please consider honoring Joan by being kind to others.  Donations may be made to: Minidoka Joint Powers Animal Control (PO Box 426; Rupert, ID  83350); or St. Nicholas School Endowment Foundation (PO Box 652; Rupert, ID  83350); or DeMary Memorial Library (417 7th St.; Rupert, ID  833509).

A private family service will be held at a future date. Arrangements are under the direction of Joel Heward Hansen Mortuary.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joan Gareth Norby, please visit our floral store.