Joan Muschinske

Joan (Jo) Lillian Muschinske, age 92, of Fremont, California, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025.
Born on April 16, 1933, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, Jo was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her devoted husband of 67 years, John Muschinske.
Jo earned a Bachelor of Science in Art from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, graduating in June 1959, and proudly served in the United States Air Force, receiving her honorable discharge in September 1959. She later continued her education by earning an Associate of Arts in Computer Programming from De Anza College, which led to a fulfilling 10-year career as a computer programming contractor for NASA.
She is also survived by her son, Steven Muschinske, and his wife Janet, along with their children Sarah and John; her daughter, Karen Muschinske, and her sons Jacob and Nolan; and her sister, Janice Voelzke. Jo also opened her heart and home to raise her niece, Elisabeth (Lisa) Geier (d. 2014), and her nephew, Max Geier, after they lost their parents.
Jo was known for her warmth, generosity, and ability to make others feel truly seen. She had a gift for lifting spirits-whether by giving handmade jewelry to strangers simply because it matched their outfit, or by surprising children with stuffed animals to celebrate good behavior or comfort them in sadness. She loved hearing people's stories and sharing them with others, creating connections wherever she went.
In accordance with Jo's wishes, there will be no memorial service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care at https://ltwc.org, a cause combining two of Jo's greatest passions-her love for animals and the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada, where she lived for 25 years.
Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.