Joanne Altena

Joanne Altena was born in Hull, Iowa, on May 26, 1936, to Henry and Hilda (Moorlag) Nobel. She was raised in Hull, Rock Valley, and Sioux Center. She graduated from Sioux Center Public High School in 1954. On December 22, 1955, Joanne was married to Wayne Altena in Sioux Center. They lived and raised their family on a farm near Ireton, from 1956-2006. After Wayne passed away in 2003, Joanne made her home in Sioux Center. In 2009 Joanne suffered from a stroke and lived at Pleasant Acres in Hull until her death. Joanne loved her Lord and was a member of a number of Christian Reformed Churches in Sioux County. Her commitment to her faith was lived out by her love of volunteering for many church and school activities. She also enjoyed helping Wayne on the farm, sewing, gardening, and quilt making. Joanne relaxed by doing many Sudoku, word search, and jigsaw puzzles. Survivors include six children and their spouses: Randy and Karen Altena of Grandview, WA; Doug and Deb Altena of Jenison, MI; Pam and Wayne Klein of Sioux Center; Ken and Joyce Altena of Grand Rapids, MI; Shelly and Matt Vande Voort of Orange City; Lynn and Javan James of Lynden, WA; 24 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Joanne is also survived by five siblings: Bernard and Adeline Nobel of Milaca, MN; Harriet and Garret Van Voorst of Inwood, IA; John and Marilyn Nobel of LeMars, IA; Herkie and Bill Davelaar of Sioux Center, IA; and Henrietta Schiebout of Milaca, MN. Joanne was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne and a son-in-law, Theron Ver Steeg.