Joan Robertson

Joan Robertson, 80, of Atlantic, died Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at her home.

Mary Joan was born in the middle of a blizzard that left doctors scrambling to get there on March 6, 1943, in Erie, Kansas, the daughter of Hollis Heady and Nelle Christine (Kinne) George.  She attended Country School #7 starting in first grade. After 2 years the school closed and she went to Erie Schools and graduated from Erie High School in 1960.  Following graduation she attended Kansas State, receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Textiles and Retailing.  

While at Kansas State she was set up on a blind date, with Richard Robertson who was also a student there and the rest is history.  The couple was married on September 12, 1964, at the Christian Church in Erie, Kansas.  Soon after they made the move to Atlantic, Iowa, where Richard had taken a job with Walnut Grove. They then moved to Elk Horn, Nebraska for a few years before moving back to Atlantic in 1969.  When they returned, they rented their current home for a short time before purchasing it.  One of the key factors in purchasing the home was that it would be big enough to house the many antiques that they were likely going to purchase in the coming years.  It was proven while living here that if a marriage can survive putting up wallpaper, especially on a 14’ high section above the staircase, it could withstand anything.  

Joan was a homemaker and also had a wholesale craft business, Chestnut Lane Creations, which she ran out of her home for ten years.  The business took off instantly after she created her first catalog, remember this was before the internet and social media selling.   Joan’s creative mind thought of all the crafts that would be featured in that season’s catalog and after orders were received her helpful crew was busy making the product and packaging it to go to various stores.  

She was a busy body, not one to sit still!  Joan usually had several quilting, wool applique and other sewing projects all going at once. These projects turned into gifts at birthdays and Christmas, that will always be treasured by her family.  She had a keen eye for decorating; Christmas being her favorite time, and always leaned towards a more primitive style.  Joan loved working in her flower garden; her backyard being a beautiful sight.  Her specialty in the kitchen was her homemade Angel Food Cake.  The family and couple looked forward to traveling: Branson, Hawaii, Colorado and a recent Alaskan Cruise were just a few highlights.  They also made an effort to return to their roots in Kansas a few times a year.  Michele will always remember the fun they had on their spur of the moment Saturday outings to grab lunch and go antiquing or to check out a new boutique.     

She was an amazing grandma and GiGi, also referred to as the baby whisperer, who was always there even when it was last minute. Joan made every minute count with them. She even turned one of her flower beds into a dirt area for the boys to play.  

Joan was a member of the United Church of Christ in Atlantic and was active in the church treasury and the quilting group.  Joan’s unwavering faith has provided her strength through her life.  She taught her family how to love unconditionally, have patience, and how being a “quiet influencer” can make an impact on those around you.  

Joan is survived by her husband of 58 years, Richard Robertson; daughter, Michele (David) Kirchhoff; grandchildren, Stephanie (Anthony) Drogo, Derek (Becca) Kirchhoff and Kayla (Drake) Roller; great-grandchildren, Connor and Waylyn; and brother, Bill George.

She is preceded in death by her parents, parents-in-law, and nephew.

Visitation with the family present will begin at 9:30 a.m., Tuesday, August 1^st at the United Church of Christ in Atlantic, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.  The service will be recorded and available on the funeral home website by the end of day Tuesday.  

Burial will be held at 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, August 2^nd at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel, Iowa.   Those attending are welcome to join in a procession to the cemetery that will leave Roland Funeral Home at 11:15 a.m., Wednesday. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family for later designation to the United Church of Christ, Atlantic Splash Pad and the American Heart Association.

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Joan’s family and the arrangements.  Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.