Joni Dee Adams

A Celebration of Life: Joni D. Adams
Joni D. Adams, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and cherished friend, peacefully transitioned to her eternal rest on March 22nd, 2026, surrounded by the love of her sisters at Perham Living in Perham, Minnesota.
Family Legacy
Joni leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold her memory close: her five siblings—John D. Adams (Nina), Sam J. Adams (Karen), Sherri Bjornson, Betsy K. Adams Hietala (Stephen), and J. Ann Adams-Hove (Tom)—along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins whose lives she touched with her warmth and care.
Early Life and Education
Born on April 3rd, 1952, in Fargo, North Dakota, Joni's foundation was built in the welcoming community that raised her. She walked the halls of Lewis & Clark Elementary and Agassiz Junior High before proudly graduating from Fargo South High School in 1970. Her academic excellence continued at North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) from 1976-1977, where she graduated at the top of her class—a achievement that would launch her into a distinguished nursing career spanning nearly four decades.
A Life Dedicated to Healing
Joni's nursing journey began at St. Luke's Hospital Pediatrics, where she served as a Licensed Practical Nurse, discovering her calling to care for others. Seeking adventure and sunshine, she courageously packed her faithful Volkswagen Bug and ventured to Arizona, embodying the spirit of independence that would define her life.
At Good Samaritan Hospital in Phoenix (1977-1980), Joni demonstrated remarkable dedication by working full-time while pursuing her Associate's degree in nursing at Gateway Community College. Her commitment to excellence led her to Glendale Surgical Center, where from 1983 to 2004, she didn't just work—she built a second family, creating bonds that lasted a lifetime.
After a brief return to Fargo (2004-2006) working at PRACS Institute, Joni's heart called her back to the Arizona sun she loved. Her final chapter brought her to Travelers Insurance, where she spent over 15 years as a Medical Case Manager in workers' compensation. In this role, she became an advocate for injured workers, partnering closely with claims teams to ensure comprehensive care and recovery. Her expertise was valued so highly that she mentored new nurses and represented the nursing profession in office tours.
A Heart Full of Love
Joni's compassionate spirit extended beyond her professional life to her beloved animal companions. She opened her heart and home to countless furry friends throughout the years: Spicy, Duke, Lucy, Lay Lay, Huey, Libby, Larry, Jack, Simon, Lenny, and Sadie, along with her feline family members Simon, Sugar, and Grey Lady. Each represented her boundless capacity for love and her belief that every creature deserved care and comfort.
Reunited in Love
Joni now rests in the loving embrace of those who preceded her: her devoted parents, Jim and Tuddy Adams; grandparents Cecil and Matilda Adams, Bill Rutherford, Coral Rutherford Swenson, and Arthur Swenson; brother-in-law Keith Bjornson; niece Nicole Lee Adams; nephew Steve Connelly; and numerous beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and cherished pets—all deeply loved and eternally missed.
Celebration of Life
Join us in celebrating Joni's remarkable life on July 3rd, 2026, at noon at the family cabin on Lake Melissa, located at 23291 Roosevelt Beach Lane, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. Come share stories, laughter, and memories of a woman who touched so many lives with her kindness, dedication, and love.
Gratitude
Our hearts overflow with gratitude to the entire Perham Living family. Every staff member demonstrated extraordinary kindness, compassion, and dedication during Joni's time of greatest need. Their loving care provided comfort not only to Joni but to all who love her, and for this gift, we remain forever thankful.
Joni's legacy lives on in every life she touched, every patient she healed, and every heart she warmed with her presence.

Schoeneberger Funeral & Cremation Service, Perham, MN (218) 346-5175 www.schoenebergerfh.com