Born May 6, 1939, Joanne Eastman was the fifth of five children of Hope Honora and Joseph Philip Eastman. Joanne was born in Ludlow, Colorado on a ranch near Trinidad, Colorado. Joanne attended Trinidad Junior College and Adam States College, earning her teaching certificate. Joanne married Norman Ray Hickel on August 21, 1960 and taught for one year before becoming a full time mother and homemaker.

Joanne and Norman had four children. Sandra Lee Curtis, Karen Irlyn LaPierre, Steven Oliver Hickel, and Janine Carol Leupold. Joanne has three grandchildren, two step grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and twelve step great grandchildren.

Joanne is proceeded in death by Steven Oliver Hickel on December 11, 1998.

Joanne and Norman lived in Salida, Colorado and then moved to Denver in 1987 for work. Joanne worked for the Jefferson County Schools teaching children how to read. Joanne was very active at church, including teaching Bible School, baking cookies for the Vacation Bible School and helping with meals for families in need.

Joanne passed away on December 10, 2025 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She was known for her kindness and graciousness.

Joanne’s celebration of life will be held on December 27, 2025 at 1 PM at the Golden Church of Christ in Golden, Colorado.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association.