Joan Karen Route

Joan Karen Route (Bengtson), age 79, of Pine City, Minnesota, passed away peacefully May 28, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

Joan was born April 2, 1946 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Eldo and Helen (Danielson) Bengtson. She grew up in Frederic, Wisconsin, where she cherished time spent getting into mischief with her cousins during family gatherings. In school, Joan was active in 4-H and loved caring for and riding her horse, Tony. She was a majorette and deeply involved in music—participating in band, choir, madrigal, all-star band, triple trio, and pep band. In 1956, she was honored as the mascot of the Frederic Vikings when they advanced to the championship game. Joan graduated from Frederic High School in 1964 and briefly attended the University of Wisconsin–Superior before returning home to Frederic.

On March 11, 1967, Joan married the love of her life, Frederick E. Route, at Grace Lutheran Church in West Sweden, Wisconsin. The couple made their home in Pine City, where they owned and operated The Fair Store. They lovingly raised their two daughters, Wendi and Tami, who were the light of Joan’s life. Joan also worked as an accountant for Pine County Health and Human Services where she retired after many years.

Joan’s faith was a constant presence in her life. She was an active member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, as well as a devoted participant in community groups including the Jaycees and Lions Club International and The Red Hat Society. She enjoyed spending free time traveling with family, cheering on her grandchildren at their various activities, “Duck Hunting” with friends, participating in several local card clubs and the best time was spent being GG to Mara and Mack. Her passion for connection and service left a lasting impact, and she treasured the lifelong friendships she built along the way.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Wendi Kroll, Tami (Shelby) Holen; grandchildren Jennifer Johnson, Teri Kroll (Matt), Megan (Justin) Hanna, Kevin (Haley) Holen, Allison Holen; great-grandchildren Mara Hanna, Mack Hanna; siblings Marlene Friberg, Alan Bengtson, Lynda (Robert) Wood; brothers/sisters-in-laws Ginny Baranow, Bob (Holly) Route, Jack (Deb) Route, Bill (Karin) Route; extended family Katelyn Anderson, Nick (Theresa) Hofstader, Madelyn and Brooklyn Hofstader; many other beloved family members and friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Eldo and Helen Bengtson; beloved husband Frederick Route; his parents, Les and Kaya Route; son-in-law Art Kroll; brother Larry Bengtson; brothers-in-law Dallas Friberg, Bob Baranow; nephew Kevin Friberg; grandson-in-law Al Johnson.

Joan will be remembered for her generosity, unwavering faith, bright smile, and deep love for her family and friends. Her legacy of kindness and joy lives on in all who knew her.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at Encore Assisted Living and Saint Croix Hospice for the compassion and comfort they provided during Joan’s final days.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find peace in knowing that Joan has been reunited with her beloved Fred (Poopsie)—he welcomed her with open arms—and that her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched.

A celebration of Joan’s life: 11 AM; Monday, June 9th at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Pine City, a visitation is planned for one-hour prior to the service at the church. Joan will be interred at West Sweden Church Cemetery in West Sweden, Wisconsin at a later date.

• In memory of Joan, memorials may be directed to:
• Pine City Food Shelf
• 220 7th Street SW
• Pine City, MN 55063
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Funeral arrangements for Joan Route are entrusted to the: Funeral and Cremation Service of Pine City ~ Swanson Chapel www.FuneralAndCremationService.com