Joan Kloppenburg

Joan Elizabeth Kloppenburg, 79, Springfield, Missouri, passed away on April 7, 2006 at Christian Healthcare West after a long illness. She was born on June 30, 1926 in Grand Island, Nebraska, to John and Matilda (Casperson) Tuhey. Joan graduated from Central High School in Springfield, Missouri, as well as Burge School of Nursing. She was united in marriage to Roy J. Kloppenburg on November 11, 1946 in Springfield, Mo. Into this union two children were born.

Joan was a long time member of Wesley United Methodist Church for over forty-three years. She was active in many aspects of the church including being the church secretary for a short time and communion steward and member of the ladies' Ruth Circle. She was a member of the Dogwood Sunday School Class. She formed many friendships and shared great memories with other church members.

Joan worked many jobs while living in Springfield. She worked as a registered nurse for the Greene County Health Department in cooperation with Springfield Public Schools with students quarantined at home. She also worked as a pediatric nurse in Dr. Clayton's office for many years. She and her husband then started their own business, Queen Size Shoe Stores in Springfield and Joplin. Joan was one of two founding members of the Ozarks Piecemakers Quilt Guild in Springfield, over twenty five years ago. Many friends crossed her path as she made these changes in life.

Preceding her in death, in addition to her parents, were one brother, Donald Tuhey and her husband of half a century, Roy J. Kloppenburg.

She is survived by two sons; Kevin Kloppenburg of Springfield, as well as Ray Kloppenburg and his wife Ann of St. Louis, Missouri; three grandchildren, Sarah, Andrew and Hannah Kloppenburg, all of St. Louis, Missouri. Also surviving are her two brothers, Jerry Tuhey of Ozark, Missouri, and Edward Tuhey of Nixa, Missouri, and a host of friends.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 12, 2006 in Wesley United Methodist Church with the Reverend William Moore officiating. Burial will follow in White Chapel Memorial Gardens under the care of Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home 500 E. Walnut St. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Wesley United Methodist Church 922 W. Republic Rd. Springfield, MO 65807 in memory of Joan Kloppenburg. Online condolences can be made at www.hhlohmeyer.com.