In Loving Memory of Joan LaRay Gaul
The Upper Iowa River has lost one of its fiercest and most faithful souls. On March 1, 2025, Joan LaRay Gaul set off on her final journey, carried not by the rivers current this time but by the winds that sweep over the bluffs she loved so well. She lived life on her own terms – strong-willed, independent, and deeply connected to the land and water that shaped her spirit.
Born on December 2, 1959, Joan never needed frills or fuss. She spoke to the Gods of the Bluff, listened to the wisdom of the river, and found her peace in the wild places most people never thought to look. The Upper Iowa was more than just a river to her – it was home, church, and sanctuary. She paddled its waters, walked its banks, and let its rhythms guide her heart.
She had no use for convention, but she had plenty of room for love – the kind that was real, unpolished, and deep as the roots of the ancient trees she admired. She lived simply, spoke plainly, and never backed down when it mattered. The world may try to soften women like her, but she stood firm, as steady as the limestone bluffs that watched over her beloved river.
Joan leaves behind her daughter Levon Scheevel (Andrew Kolbet) of Cresco, Iowa; seven siblings: Rose (Roger) Enestvedt of Sacred Heart, Minn., Allen (Karen) Gaul of Cresco, Iowa, Vivian (Doug) Richards of Lake Mills, Iowa, Mike (Deb) Gaul of Nora Springs, Iowa, Geri (Tom) Weaklen of Anamosa, Iowa, Duane (Michelle) Gaul of New Hampton, Iowa, and Annette (Mike) Duryee of Cresco; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Joan is preceded in death by her parents Dwain and Luwane (Blomgren) Gaul, brother Joseph “Joe” Gaul, and nephews Brian Gaul, Sean Gaul and Kyle Christianson.
A celebration in honor of Joan’s life will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at her hometown tavern the K-Town Tap from 1-4 p.m.