Joan Rae Rigdon

Joan Rae Rigdon (Pemble), of Mankato MN passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026 at the age of 82. Joan was born on June 6, 1943, in Mankato. She graduated from St. Clair High School in 1961.

Joan shared a beautiful love story with her husband, Patrick, the love of her life, with whom she built a life centered on family. They were married November 21, 1964 in Littleton, CO. Married for 42 years, together they raised three children and were gifted with eight grandchildren.

She lived a life defined by determination, grace, and a deep love for her family. Above all, Joan was a devoted mother who lovingly raised her children while balancing work and pursuing her education—an accomplishment that reflected her extraordinary strength and perseverance.

Through hard work and dedication, Joan earned her bachelor’s degree from Mankato State University, graduating with summa cum laude honors in 1986. Her academic achievement was a source of great pride and a testament to her resilience and commitment to lifelong learning.

Joan built a distinguished career at MSU, where she worked her way to become Director of Accounting. Over 25 years of service, she was respected for her intelligence, leadership, and steadfast work ethic.

After retiring from MSU, Joan embraced a second career that perfectly matched her adventurous spirit and passion for discovering the world. She became a flight attendant with Mesaba Airlines, fulfilling a lifelong aspiration; a role she truly loved for the travel benefits. Her 10 years in the skies allowed her to combine work with one of her greatest joys—travel.

Joan cherished exploring new places and creating unforgettable memories through her many adventures. She especially loved hiking and was most proud of completing the Camino de Santiago, one of her most meaningful journeys.

She always enjoyed her coffee, and of course, would never turn down a “happy hour” with family or friends. She will be remembered for her strength, intelligence, warmth, and adventurous soul. Her love for family, travel, and life itself touched all who knew her.

Joan is survived by her children: son, Russ Rigdon (Linda Rigdon) of Mankato; two daughters, Jeanine (Steve) Casey of Chanhassen and Christine (David) Rietz of Elkhorn, NE; eight grandchildren: Matthew and Hannah Rigdon, Patrick, Lukas, and Ava Casey, & Charlie (Meagan), Kate, and Meg Rietz; 3 siblings: Roy Pemble of Mankato, John Pemble of Janesville, Joyce (Randy) Meyer of Canby.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Patrick Rigdon, and her parents, Chester W. “Bud” and Elizabeth Pemble.

A celebration of Joan’s life will be held at 11:00am Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Hosanna Lutheran Church, Mankato, with visitation beginning at 9:00am. Condolences for the family can be left at www.mankatomortuary.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation. The church will livestream the service at the following link: https://boxcast.tv/view/joan-rigdon-funeral-uqiflag665r9revzcsf8 .