Joann Bemis, age 83, of Coon Rapids, MN, formerly Mahnomen, MN, died Saturday, June 27, 2020, at Camilia Rose Care Center, Coon Rapids, MN.

Joann Bemis was born on September 23, 1936, in Grand Forks, ND, to Allan and Isabella (Mrachek) Bemis.   She was affectionately known as Jo to everyone that loved her. Upon graduation from Mahnomen High School, Jo began working for Dr. Stern, wearing many hats on the job as a doctor's assistant. Jo did everything from receptionist, bookkeeper, to dispensing medication and more.  When Dr. Stern moved his practice to California, he wanted Jo to move with him and his family. She declined his offer, wanting to be closer to her parents and sisters, who were a very close-knit family.  She was a very ambitious lady, working many jobs over the years, and enjoyed meeting new people.  Jo worked for Tupa Wholesale- Hides and Furs, buying fur pelts while also selling plants, spices, and wild rice. For over 35 years she sold Avon products, earning many Presidential Awards.  Jo also managed a movie rental store, worked at Jeans-N-Things and worked with her niece and nephew at their business, TNT, making pizza, subs, and Mexican food.

Jo never married, but had many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews, whom she loved and cared deeply for, loving them like they were her own.  She never forgot a birthday, baptism, or wedding, making each one a beautiful afghan or two. Jo made beautiful counted cross-stitch pictures for family, and made and donated many caps, mittens, and slippers to the needy children of Mahnomen.  She also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, cooking and baking, assembling puzzles, reading, shopping, going out to eat, and taking trips to visit family.  Jo will affectionately be remembered for her homemade buns, lasagna, and excellent macaroni salad, which she made for many family events.  Many hours were spent watching game shows, but nothing came close to the MN Twins and Vikings.  She also treasured the time spent with her dogs and she     had many over the years. Jo was a very devoted daughter. When her father died in 1975, she took very good care of her mother, allowing her to remain in her own home until her passing. She was also a very kind and loving sister, aunt, great aunt, and friend.  Jo had a huge heart and always helped anyone in need.  She was a lifetime member of the Eastern Star, and the United Church of Christ- Circles of Faith Congregational Church in Waubun, MN.  In 2012, due to declining health, she moved to Coon Rapids, MN, to be near family.

Jo will be deeply missed by her sister, Bobbie Flicek of Fort Ripley, MN, and sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Tom Berkner of Coon Rapids, MN, many nieces, nephews; and great nieces and great nephews. Preceding her death were her parents; sister and brother-in-law, Bunny and Kenny Bjerk; and brother-in-law, Manny Flicek.

God Bless the Memory of our Dear Jo.

A private family graveside service will be held at Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery in Mahnomen, MN.