Joan Marie Robinson

Joan Robinson, age 86, of Petoskey, Michigan, died peacefully in her home on April 23, 2026.

Born to Floyd and Rosalie Thompson on August 17, 1939, in Petoskey, Joan attended and graduated from St. Francis Xavier School. She worked for Barnum Brothers (later Continental) for thirty years as a press operator, manufacturing the inner shroud that prevented automotive engines from overheating. She later married Dale Robinson at St. Francis Xavier, the love of her life, with whom she raised four children and a loving home.

Joan was a 50-year golden member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, working with the organization to provide food for grieving families at funerals. She would also create Easter baskets with the Order come holidays, always willing to donate her time to enrich the lives of local children. She was also an elder of the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians, attending many luncheons and sharing presence with her tribe.

Above all, Joan’s love was with her family. She made special efforts to support her children-no matter their age-and absolutely adored both her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed many summers taking the kids swimming, shuttling their trips to Sault Ste. Marie, buying clothes and gifts around Christmastime, and opening the warmth of her home whenever it was needed.

Joan is survived by her children, Cheryl Lee Leonard, Linda Marie Cooper, Diane (William) Lynn Carr, and Gary (Sandy) Robinson; loving grandchildren, James (Rachel) Leonard, Scott Leonard, Sarah Leonard, Becky Leonard, Alaan Robinson, Cydney (Tucker) Grote, Nicholas (Alex) Carr, Melissa (Scott) Hucke, Josh (Ann) Robinson, Jordan (Justin) Robinson, brother Melvin Thompson, sister Patricia Borck, and grandson-in-law Danual Keys; great-grandchildren Caitie, Wesleigh, Aidric, Evie, Riley Jo, Cooper, Isla, Hailey Grace, Isaac, Caleb, Noah, Eli, and Willow.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Dale; parents Floyd and Rosalie Thompson; brothers George, Robert, and Frank Thompson; granddaughter Jessica Keys; and brother-in-law Carl Borck.

The family encourages memorial donations towards the Fraternal Order of Eagles, as well as to plant a tree in Joan’s name.

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