Joan Arlene Niva

MADISON-Joan A. Niva, age 79, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012. She was born on Feb. 28, 1932, in Mt. Horeb. Joan, along with her sister, Doris, and brothers, Bob and Ole, grew up in the Madison area. Joan was a graduate of Madison Central High School. Following graduation, she met Don Niva, and they were married on July 18, 1951. They just celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary. Joan worked for UW-Madison for many years. She enjoyed square dancing for more than 50 years. Joan loved the outdoors, camping with her family, Copper Falls State Park, and walking along the shores of Lake Monona. She is survived by her husband, Don; children, Greg (Lynne), Steve, Kathy, and James (Ginger); grandchildren, Matthew, Alex, Michael, and Nicholas. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012. Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Thursday. A special thank you to the staff at Hyland Park, Oak Park, and St. Mary’s Hospital. Cemetery: Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of service on Thursday. Funeral services will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012.