Joan Trees "Jo" Presser

Joan "Jo" Trees Presser, age 97, of Michigan City, Indiana, passed away on Dec. 5, 2025.

Jo was born on Oct. 7, 1928, in Hancock County, Indiana, to Lowell Barrett Trees and Isabelle (Shields) Trees, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Philip Trees; her daughter-in-law, Susan Presser; and her great-granddaughter, Dottie Mae Ward. Jo shared 60 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Richard Presser, who passed away on Sept. 11, 2008.

Jo is survived by her son, Ken Presser of Floyd, Virginia; and her daughter, Jody (Bill Roop) Presser of Hebron, Indiana; grandchildren, Jillian (Matthew) DeWalt of Hampshire, England, James (Monica) Ward of Zionsville, Indiana, and Jeffrey (Erin) Ward of Wichita, Kansas; and great-grandchildren, Denver Hysong, Iris Ward, Everett Hysong, Pearl Ward, Tessa Jo Ward and Eliza Ward.

Jo earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Ball State University in 1950 and later received her Master of Arts degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1963. She took great pride in being among the first women permitted to attend classes at Notre Dame, a milestone that reflected her determination and trailblazing spirit.

Jo dedicated 10 years to teaching physical education at Barker Junior High and went on to serve as a counselor at Rogers High School for 17 years, guiding and encouraging countless students throughout her career.

In retirement, Jo embraced racewalking with remarkable enthusiasm, competing in more than 200 races by the age of 80. Her accomplishments earned national recognition, including features in Sports Illustrated (Aug. 20, 1990) and Women's Day (March 29, 1988). She served as president of the Dunes Walking Club, received the Second Mile Award and Wall of Fame Award from MCAS, and proudly carried the torch for the 1987 Pan Am Games.

A longtime member of First United Methodist Church in Michigan City, Jo volunteered in the church's soup kitchen for more than 25 years and contributed her time to its Scholarship Committee. Her commitment to service, community and lifelong learning touched many lives and leaves a lasting legacy.

Friends may visit with the family at Geisen-Carlisle Funeral Home, 613 Washington St., Michigan City, Indiana, on Friday, Dec. 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 12 p.m. Interment will take place immediately after the service at Greenwood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Soup Kitchen at First United Methodist Church, 7th and Pine, Michigan City, or to the Dick and Jo Presser Scholarship, Unity Foundation, 422 Franklin St., Suite C, Michigan City.