Joanne Englund

Joanne Alfreda Englund, née Wickoren

July 3, 1930 - August 15, 2025

Joanne Alfreda Englund, née Wickoren, passed away peacefully at home on August 15, 2025, in Saint Paul, Minnesota. A lifelong resident of Saint Paul and Shoreview, Joanne dedicated her life to service, advocacy, and community engagement, leaving an indelible mark on the Twin Cities and beyond.

Born on July 3, 1930, in Saint Paul to Alfred and Audrey Sands Wickoren, Joanne remained deeply connected to her hometown throughout her life. Her professional journey was defined by a deep commitment to public service and social betterment. For twenty years, she worked for the City of Saint Paul across several key departments including Model Cities, Planning and Economic Development (PED), and Public Works. Her work contributed meaningfully to the city's development and community support initiatives. After retiring from city service, she continued her impactful efforts as a consultant for another decade.

Joanne's passion for civic engagement extended far beyond her professional roles. She held numerous leadership positions that reflected her dedication to democratic participation and historical preservation, and organizations empowering children, families, and community. She served as past president of the League of Women Voters in both Saint Paul and Shoreview, championing informed civic involvement. She also led the Ramsey County Historical Society and the Council of Independent Professional Consultants, demonstrating her wide-ranging interests and leadership capabilities. A proud graduate of Metropolitan State University (Class of 1974), Joanne later served on its board, contributing to the institution that had played a formative role in her own education.

Her commitment to community was further evidenced by her involvement with many other boards, organizations, and agencies throughout her life. Joanne's tireless work helped shape policies and programs that enriched lives across generations.

Joanne's family was a source of great pride and joy. She is survived by her daughters: Lynn Englund of Saint Paul; Gayle Englund (Laurance Strom) of Saint Paul; and Karen Steinle (Richard) of Madison, Wisconsin. She was a devoted grandmother to Mara Patton; Hans and Nils Strom; and Ty Steinle; and a beloved great-grandmother to five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her former husband Wilfred Englund; her companion Samuel A. Reed; her father Alfred Wickoren; and her mother Audrey Sands Wickoren. Joanne fondly remembered Sam's children-Jan, Toni, Renee, Marc-and grandchildren Kyle and Jennifer. Former son-in-law Paul Patton and his wife Barbara Pierson remained lovingly included in Joanne's life.

Outside of her professional and civic endeavors, Joanne embraced life with curiosity, creativity and warmth. She found joy in nature photography and writing and cherished time spent at her land in Barronett, Wisconsin. Her family and many supportive friends were central to her happiness.

In accordance with her wishes, final arrangements have been entrusted to the University of Minnesota Anatomy Bequest Program. Final inurnment at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Maplewood, MN.

Memorials are preferred to the Ramsey County Historical Society in honor of Joanne's enduring legacy.

May Joanne's memory bring comfort to all who knew her. A Memorial Service will be held on October 12, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Shoreview Community Center 4580 Victoria St. N. Program at 4:00 PM.