Joan Elaine Herdt's Obituary
Joan Elaine Herdt (Thompson), age 76, of Walkersville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 surrounded by love and with the love of her life and husband, Ronald Lee Herdt, by her side.
Born on February 9, 1950, in Fort Morgan, Colorado, Joan lived a life defined by kindness, strength, and unwavering love for those around her. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, and was joyfully anticipating becoming a great-grandmother. Her generosity and compassion touched everyone who knew her.
Joan worked for many years at Safeway before dedicating herself to raising her children and caring for others. She later worked as a personal caregiver, a role that reflected her naturally compassionate spirit. Outside of work and family life, she found joy in making jewelry, playing canasta, golfing, and spending quality time with her children and grandchildren. Whether she was playing cards, sharing stories with family, or simply offering a listening ear, Joan had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, loved, and valued.
Above all, Joan treasured her family. She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 50 years, Ronald Herdt; her sons, Kyle Herdt and Tim Herdt; her daughter, Angela VonFeldt, and her husband, Christopher VonFeldt; her grandchildren, Jonathan VonFeldt, Brittany VonFeldt, and Logan Herdt; her sister, Vicki Nutter, and her husband, Michael Nutter; and her brother, Gary Thompson, and his wife, LeAnn Thompson. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who loved and adored her.
Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Norma Thompson and Howard Thompson of Loveland, Colorado.
Her memory will live on through the love she gave, the kindness she shared, and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to allow family and friends traveling from afar the opportunity to make arrangements to attend.
What’s your fondest memory of Joan?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joan?
Share a story where Joan's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joan you’ll never forget.
How did Joan make you smile?