Joan Alice von Buskirk (Hammond), 85, passed away Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at Modesto Kaiser Medical Center surrounded by her family.

She was born on March 26, 1940 to Kenneth Sidney and Wanda Llewellyn Hammond (Lake) in Washington County, Oregon.

Before moving to Modesto, Joan was a resident of Livermore, California for over 60 years, where she lived as a homemaker. Joan adored dancing and was a member of Squarenaders and the Valley Travelers Square Dance Group for several decades with her husband Don as a dancing partner. They performed in countless cities and states at exhibitions for thousands of people to enjoy. She and Don were also travel partners, visiting many different destinations, but most notable were their frequent trips to the Bahamas. Joan was also a proud member of the Red Hat Society where she found many friendships within the group. She was an avid collector of jewelry and had accessories for any occasion.

Joan is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Donald Lee von Buskirk; three daughters, Tanya Weaver, Molly Whigham and husband Lonnie, and Jenifer Braga and husband Tony; four grandchildren, Crystal Geronimo and husband Randy, Sydney Braga, Dylan Braga, and Owen Braga; four great-grandchildren, Ricardo Geronimo, Tristan Geronimo, Titan Geronimo, and Penelope Geronimo; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Kenneth and Wanda; and her sister Jane.

Those who knew Joan will remember her for her kindness, humor, and love for her family. She was a dedicated mother and grandmother who took her family on adventures in her motorhome, wrapped gifts with extravagant bows and ribbons, and had a festive outfit for every holiday. She will be missed dearly.

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