Joan Sigrid Ames, 92, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2024, at Maine Medical Center in Portland after suffering injuries from a fall. She was born at Knox Hospital in Rockland, on August 13, 1932, to John and Lois Olson and was educated in St. George schools.

Joan’s love for the ocean and its rhythms ran deep throughout her life. Growing up along the beautiful coast of Maine, she developed a profound connection with the sea, often finding solace in its waves and endless horizon. She lived for many years on Matinicus, where she ran a lobster-buying operation, then later moved to Vinalhaven to continue the business and live life on the island. She was well respected in the lobstering and fishing communities and was a pioneer for women in business.

Joan held many jobs over the years and loved each one. From a hospital escort to restaurant owner to antique enthusiast and reseller, she held each one with the highest regard.

Joan was a giver, whether it be her time, compassion, food to those who needed it, or advice — albeit sometimes unsolicited.

A generous spirit, sense of humor, and deep compassion were not just personal traits but the very essence of her being. Known for her quick wit, colorful language, devilish giggle, and iconic beehive hairstyle, she left an indelible mark on everyone she met, her influence enduring long after her passing.

She also had a particular fondness for molasses puff candy and many other sweets, a small but cherished treat that she had delighted in throughout her life. You knew the candy bowl on her table would be full, and there was always a container of party mix or something crunchy next to her chair. Even more than her love of sweets was her adoration for all things Elvis. So much so that in her last days, she said, “I’d give up a bag of candy to see him”. Her love for simple joys and everyday pleasures was one of the many things that made her so beloved to those around her.

Joan is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, John and Brenda Armstrong; her grandchildren, Amber Armstrong and Tara Elwell; her great-granddaughter, Addison Anderson; her sister, Janice Taft; nieces, Joanna Monroe and her husband Michael, Beth LaCombe and her husband Robert; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was predeceased by her son Norris Armstrong; husband, Victor Ames; parents, John Olson and Lois Elgland; brother-in-law Frank “Buzzy” Taft; and the father of her children, Robert “Punkin” Armstrong.

At Joan’s request, there will be no formal celebration of her life.

In place of flowers, the family requests donations to Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County, P.O. Box 1294, Rockland, Maine 04841 or The Maine Lobsterman’s Association, online at www.mainelobstermen.org.

Joan’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her family and friends will deeply miss her.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

To share a memory or condolence with Joan’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.