Northern Wyoming News - Serving the Big Horn Basin for over 100 years

Joan Louise McGarvin, 69, a sixty three year resident of Worland passed away Tuesday, November 14, 2017. Joan was born on October 7, 1948 to Elmer and Martha Butz in Wheatland, WY. In 1955 the family moved to Worland for better farming opportunities. Joan, her sisters and one brother enjoyed a lively childhood. She was active in the church youth group and also enjoyed driving the tractor on the farm. Joan graduated from Worland High School in 1967. She then attended the University of Wyoming. After college she came back to Worland to work for the Daily News as a Circulation Secretary. She later became the Circulation Manager. On August 5, 1972 she married the love of her life William Dean McGarvin. They shared a passion for raising Schipperkee dogs for the next 45 years. In 1977 she changed careers and became licensed as a Real Estate Agent. She worked with Hake Real Estate from 1977 until 2000. In 2000, Allison Taylor-Lass and Joan McGarvin started McGarvin & Taylor Real Estate Specialists. She was a dedicated professional who loved helping people buy or sell their homes.

Joan cared deeply about legal rights and responsibilities, employment practices, home and community, and educational opportunities for women. She was appointed to the Wyoming Commission for Women by Governor Herschler. She was also a member of Business & Professional Women for over 10 years and she held various offices including the State Board of Directors, past District Director, President, and Treasurer. She additionally volunteered with the Soroptimist Club and also assisted in the High School with various clubs and programs. She was a long time member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church. She was also a member of the Worland Chamber of Commerce and additionally received many local Realtor of the Year awards. She also enjoyed gardening, camping, and pro-football.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Bill McGarvin of Worland. Her brother Elmer(Berna) Butz of Worland, sisters; Elaine (Mel) Faussett of Riverton, WY; Sally (Bob) Hauf of Henderson, NV; Cindy (Paul) Lutz of Gillette, WY; Lana (Dan) Schneider of Worland, WY. Numerous nephews and nieces and her pup Joshua.

A memorial service will be held Monday, November 20, 2017 at 10:30 A.M. at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Worland, WY with Dr. Ralph Partelow and Pastor Roger Dobson officiating followed by inurnment at Riverview Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Worland, WY. Memorial contributions may be given in memory of Joan McGarvin to the Zion Building Fund or Worland Senior Center. Arrangements have been entrusted to Veile Mortuary.