DAVENPORT, Iowa – One local family is proving that music truly is a gift that keeps on giving.
Ridgecrest Village residents recently enjoyed a special musical performance presented by the six surviving children of resident Joan Resnick and their families. What began nearly two decades ago as a heartfelt gift for their mother has grown into a cherished annual tradition eagerly anticipated by residents and staff alike.
Resnick has called Ridgecrest Village home for the past 19 years. Each summer, her family returns from across the United States and around the world to reunite, celebrate their family roots, and perform an inspiring concert in her honor.
A retired Home Economics and English teacher at Assumption High School, Joan and her late husband shared a lifelong love of music that has been passed down through generations. Today, their family’s musical legacy includes six children, 20 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. While only one family member performs professionally, audiences are often surprised by the exceptional talent displayed by the entire group.
This year’s program includes a special dance performance celebrating the successful cancer treatment of one of Joan’s daughters, making the event especially meaningful for the family. Their annual visit also coincides with participation in Davenport’s Bix festivities, where several family members compete and celebrate with family trophies.
Joan resides in one of Ridgecrest Village’s independent living cottages, and residents deeply appreciate her generosity in sharing this remarkable family tradition. The annual concert has become a highlight of the summer, bringing joy, inspiration, and a reminder of the power of family, faith, and music.
Ridgecrest Village is a faith-based, nonprofit 501(c)(3) Continuing Care Retirement Community founded in 1966 by Rev. John Koning. The community offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services on one beautiful 22-acre campus in Davenport.