Joanne Ida Kirkpatrick

Joanne Ida Kirkpatrick passed away peacefully at home on February 10, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on August 10, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan, to Norman and Ruth Speier. She was six minutes older than her identical twin sister and dear friend, Joyce Melcheck (Paul), who survives her. Joanne was also a dear sister to Norman Speier Jr. (deceased) and his wife Norma; Susan Mai (Rich); and Marilyn Edick (Ernie).

Joanne graduated from Redford High School in Detroit in 1960 and from Evangelical Deaconess Hospital School of Nursing in 1963. She became a Registered Nurse and moved to Jackson, Mississippi, after marrying Robert (Bob) Kirkpatrick on November 24, 1964. Their first two children, Scott and Sharyl, were born there. In 1968, the young family returned to Michigan, settling in Mason.

Joanne continued working as a registered nurse and later in home care until the birth of her youngest daughter, Karen, in 1971. After that, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to her home and family; a calling she embraced with joy and purpose.

She cared deeply about her children’s education and values. Her strong convictions and love for her family influenced generations, including inspiring her daughter Karen to homeschool her own children.

Joanne was active in her community and was involved in organizations such as the local PTO, the Branch County Republican Club, and Right to Life. She was a woman who believed in standing for what she valued while caring deeply for those around her.

For over 30 years, Joanne was part of the First Baptist Church in Bronson, and for the last 11 years she and Bob were members of Lockwood Community Church. They formed deep friendships in both congregations. One of their most beloved ministries was hosting Euchre parties in their home. These gatherings brought together newcomers and longtime friends alike, welcoming well over 100 people through their doors over the years. It was fellowship at its finest — full of laughter, connection, and Joanne’s unmistakable hospitality.

Joanne was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Robert Bruce Kirkpatrick, who passed away on October 3, 2020. In 2021, she married Daniel Bjorkman, who survives her.

She is lovingly remembered by her children:

• Robert “Scott” Kirkpatrick and his wife Carol, along with their children Darcy (Jake) Marckini, Nate (Kasie) Kaufman, and Paige Kirkpatrick.
• Sharyl Cavellier and her husband Steve, along with their children Jennifer (Sean) Conway and great-grandchildren Kinley and Kace; Joe Cavellier; Jack Cavellier; and Amy Cavellier.
• Karen Hoop and her husband Chris, along with their children Taylor, Josh, and Zack.

Bob and Joanne also opened their hearts and home to Rick Connolly and Dawnette Burns, who became treasured members of the family.

Above all else, Joanne’s life was defined by her faith. More than her nursing career, her community involvement, or even her devotion to family, her relationship with Jesus Christ was central to who she was.

She shared her faith openly and sincerely, not out of obligation, but out of love. Her deepest desire was that others would know the peace and hope she found in her Savior.

Joanne desired for each and every one of you to trust Jesus as your Savior. You will not regret it. She didn’t.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Saturday, April 4th at 11AM. Hope Church in Coldwater, MI. 200 N Fremont Street. Please stay for lunch and fellowship after the service. We will be there for hours to reminisce and look at pictures and videos; therefore, the family will not have visitation prior to the service. Updates to where memorial donations can be sent will be provided soon. If you choose to send flowers, send to Karen Hoop at 263 N Matteson Lake Road, Bronson, MI 49028 and the family will transport to the service. The facility does not have a way to receive these.