Joan Wales-Dickson, age 82, formerly of Vicksburg, died Monday, July 12, 2021 in Las Cruses, New Mexico.  She was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan on December 16, 1938 to German immigrant parents, F. Joseph and Marie (Eppler) Weitenauer.  She grew up on a farm near Vicksburg, and attended Mendon and Vicksburg Schools, graduating with the VHS Class of 1957.  Joan married David M. Wales in 1958 and they raised two boys, Jeffrey M. and Mark D. Wales. In the 1980s they pulled up stakes, ending up in El Paso, Texas.

Joan was successful in her careers at Western Michigan University, in real estate, and management.  She enjoyed the fruits of her hard labors.  Years after David passed away, she met and married Larry Dickson. Together they travelled the world, shopping everywhere she went.  The marriage ended in divorce.  Joan was an avid seamstress, making beautiful clothes and quilts.

Joan is survived by her son, Jeff (Joni) Wales of Vicksburg; her grandson, John C. Wales; brother, Otto Decker, and his family.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Mark; husband David; and sister, Delores Elkins.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has been conducted.  A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 9, 2021 from 11 am to 2 pm at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon.  Afterward, family and friends are invited to share more memories at her son, Jeff's home at 16975 South 31 ^st Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097.  Memories and condolences may also be shared online at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com