Joan Perius

Joan Marie (Platz) Perius, 84, West Fargo, ND formally of Wales, ND joined our Lord in Heaven on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at Bethany Nursing Home, Fargo, ND surrounded by her family. Joan Perius was the first of seven children born to John “Jack” and Lillian (Lorenz) Platz November 30, 1934. She attended both grade school and high school in Wales, ND where she graduated in 1952 and continued her education at Valley City Teachers College acquiring her certificate in 1957. Joan went on to teach school for over 10 years in Mount Carmel, ND, Rugby, ND and Glenwood, MN. She happily married the love of her life, James John Perius on August 6, 1960. James and Joan proudly raised four beautiful children on the Summit Ranch north of the Wales, ND where they continued the family tradition of farming from 1960 until retirement in 1993 when they moved to Fargo, ND. She partnered with her husband completing the diaconate formation in 1988 and continued to support him in his diaconate mission. Joan was very active in a variety of roles and activities at St Michaels Catholic Church and St Alphonsus Catholic Church including the Christian Mothers, Prolife Movement and St. Michaels Alter Society. Joan also worked for Meals on Wheels and Midwest Homecare after their move to Fargo. Joan was also a “professional” shopper with a keen eye to find many treasures for the family members so very dear to her. Joan was a fantastic cook and baker and will be remembered for the many incredible dishes including her acclaimed fudge. Joan was loved by all and always shared the positive spin on every conversation. Survived by: Husband James, Fargo ND, Four Children: Mark (Julie) Perius, Milford PA, Michael (Michelle) Perius, West Fargo, ND, Nicholas (Sheila) Perius, Twin Falls, ID, Maria (Stuart) Clute, West Fargo, ND. Ten grandchildren: Dawn Berry, Andrew Berry, Macey Perius, Khauner Perius, Joshua Beaton, Chelsey (Jeff) Turnbull, Nicholas Jr Perius, Alex Clute, Adam Clute and Mariah Clute. Two great-grandchildren: Ozzie and Oaklynn Turnbull. Siblings: Janet Dosmann, Langdon, ND, Mary (Don) Liming, Apple Valley, MN, Linda (Paul) Carslon, Burnesville, MN and Larry (Colleen) Platz, Minot ND as well as several treasured cousins, nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents, siblings; Helen Jehlick and James Platz along with many special friends and family members. Joan will be remembered as a loving wife and mom, faithful friend, sister and aunt and of course a very proud grandmother who was loved by all and role model to many. As Joan would say “Never lose your joy” and even though we will miss our sweet “Joanie”, we are rejoicing that she is with our Lord and Savior and is now our very special angel watching over us. This brings us much joy. Special thanks to the staff at Bethany Nursing Home for the love, care and support they gave to Joan and our family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Ethos Hospice, Fargo and the Alzheimer's Association.