Joan M. Gillespie, 87, of Owatonna, died Friday, September 20, 2013 at Homestead Hospice House. Joan was born July 19, 1926 in Rochester, Minnesota the daughter of Sylvester "Jim" and Grace (Neal) Barry. She was raised in Rochester and also attended school graduating from Rochester Lourdes High School. She then attended secretarial school. Joan worked at Federated Insurance in Owatonna. She was united in marriage to Ludwig Gillespie on February 26, 1948 in Owatonna. The couple moved to Worthington and for a short time they made their home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In 1955, they returned to Owatonna where Joan worked for the Owatonna Chamber of Commerce, Nu Bilt and for Alexander Lumber. Joan retired in 1988. Joan was an excellent Bridge player. She served as President of the Mrs. Jaycee''s and along with Ludwig, was very active in the Elks. The couple enjoyed spending the winter months in Arizona. Joan and Ludwig loved to go dancing. Most importantly though was her family. Joan loved being with her family. Ludwig died in 2011 and she dearly missed him. They were inseparable and enjoyed each others company. She is survived by her son Barry Gillespie of Owatonna; a daughter Pamela Gillespie of Northfield; four granddaughters Erin Gillespie (and Justin Ohnstad); Katie Gillespie; and Ryan Jirele all of Owatonna; Arianna Bond of Milwaukee; three great grandsons Noah and Jacob Gillespie and Jayden Jirele. Joan is also survived by a sister Lois Lane in Arizona and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death her husband Ludwig; and seven brothers and sisters. Visitation will be at The Associated Church on Wednesday, October 2, 2013 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Memorial services will be held Wednesday, October 2, 2013 at 11:00 AM at The Associated Church with the Reverend Katherine Gibson Christensen officiating. Interment will be held at a later date. Memorials are preferred to donor''s choice. Arrangements by Michaelson Funeral Home. Visitation: 10/02/2013 10:00 10/02/2013 11:00 Service: 10/02/2013 11:00