Joan Janssen

2935 - 2012

Joan (Joanie) Janssen, 77, De Pere, passed away Wednesday, April 18, 2012 with her husband, Roger, at her side. The daughter of the late Joe and Renata Pritzl was born April 2, 1935. Survivors include her son Jim and daughter-in-law Debbie, De Pere; daughter Mary Thoele and son-in-law John, De Pere and son Steve, Birmingham, MI; and granddogs Charlie and Bentley; sister, Geri Bellamy and brothers, Ray (Mary), Cal (Beatie), Gordie (Alice), Frank (Jean) Pritzl, and many loving nieces and nephews.

Family, faith and friends were guiding lights for Joanie who selflessly gave to others, including delivering Mobile Meals, serving food to the homeless, baking, crafting and volunteering in support of St. Mary Catholic Church, Sisters of St. Francis and other charitable organizations.

She was a devoted wife to Roger for 54 years and the "Best Mom in the World" to her three children. Her generous heart, inspirational compassion and beautiful, welcoming smile made all who met her love her. She was talented and creative, a "comfort-food" gourmet, and all would vie for "Aunt Joan's" cookies and desserts at family gatherings. While her talents were many and her generosity infinite, she would take no credit for all that she did, saying "We're not living for our life on earth—what we do here is for eternity."

The most beautiful sunrise we had ever seen welcomed us the day of her passing. We know in our hearts it was Mom's faith and love shining through to give us strength—letting us know that she is here for us now—just as she was there for us every day of her life.

Friends may call at Cotter Funeral Home, 860 N. Webster Ave., De Pere on Friday, April 20, 2012 from 4 to 8 p.m. Visitation continues at St. Mary Catholic Church, 4805 Sportsman Road, Ledgeview, on Saturday, April 21, 2012 after 9 a.m., followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at the church on Saturday with Rev. Patrick Beno, officiating, and Rev. Gery Meehan, O.Praem will serve as homilist. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.cotterfuneralhome.com.

One of Joanie's final wishes was to volunteer with Mary at the new food pantry to be built in De Pere. In lieu of flowers, memorials will be donated to help those in need. Joan and the entire Janssen family would like to thank the compassionate nursing staff at St. Vincent Hospital and everyone who sent cards and prayers, sending us "little slices of miracles" throughout this difficult time.