Joan Ellen Bartingale

Joan Bartingale, age 71, passed away peacefully at her home in De Pere, Wisconsin, on December 13, 2025.

Joan was born in Algona, Iowa, and spent most of her childhood in Albert Lea, Minnesota. She later made the Green Bay area her home, where she built a life defined by family, friendships, and an unmistakable joy for living.

She dedicated her professional life to helping others as an Occupational Therapist with the Green Bay Public Schools, where her compassion, patience, and enthusiasm made a lasting difference in the lives of the children and families she served.

Joan’s energy and love of being active were evident from an early age, beginning as a high school cheerleader, a role that perfectly reflected her outgoing personality and spirit. That passion continued throughout her life. She was a marathon runner, a Birkebeiner finisher, and an avid participant in cross-country skiing, biking, tennis, and pickleball. She embraced physical challenges with determination and joy, inspiring others with her boundless enthusiasm and drive.

Known as the life of the party, Joan brought laughter, warmth, and connection wherever she went. Even if she arrived thirty minutes late, she somehow became the center of the gathering—reconnecting friends, telling stories, and making everyone feel welcome. A true people person, she cherished her many friendships and thrived on being social.

Joan loved traveling with her husband, whether visiting friends across the country, exploring national parks, or cycling overseas, blending her passion for adventure, fitness, and connection. Above all, she adored her seven granddaughters, finding joy in playing with them, sharing her creativity, and creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Joan is survived by her devoted husband, Bob; her children Ryan (wife Cara) and their daughters Amelia and Adelynn; Paul (wife Lina) and their daughters Isabella and Emma; and Laura (husband Justin) and their daughters Sienna, Elaina, and Marissa; as well as her sisters Janet, Barbara, and Patricia.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Mildred Gurwell.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Joan will be held at Journey Community Church, 1800 Grant St., De Pere, Wisconsin, on Friday, January 9, 2026, with visitation beginning at 3:00 PM and the service at 4:30 PM.