Joan Catherine Maria Putzer

Joan Catherine Maria Putzer, beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin on December 7, 1942, Joan was the second of eleven children born to James and Dorothy Gavin. Growing up in a lively Irish household forged her generous and creative spirit, deep faith, and enduring devotion to family.

She worked as a medical transcriptionist part-time and was a devoted homemaker for her family. She was a lover of languages with college degrees in German and Spanish and learned many more in her spare time. Her intellect was matched by her creativity: she was passionate about baking, knitting, sewing, quilting, journaling, and reading. She also loved swimming as a fun and relaxing activity.

A devoted Catholic, Joan lived her faith through action. She was a longtime supporter of the pro-life movement and she lovingly made baby quilts for the pro-life Pregnancy Hope Center.

Her wisdom, warmth, and steady faith made her a comforting presence and a quiet force of good in her family, church, and community. Plus having the gift of gab, she had a witty sense of humor and sass that was fun to interact with.

She was the devoted wife and is survived by: Ron Putzer and the proud and loving mother of Jon (Sherri) Putzer, Lisbeth (Brett) Adams, Tim (Elizabeth) Putzer, and Ben (Becky) Putzer—each of whom carries forward her legacy of faith, warmth, and unwavering love.

Joan cherished being a grandmother to: - Elias and Savanna (Lisbeth’s children) - Sam, Sean, Gabe, and Evy (Tim’s children) - Lilly, Joe, Gigi, Therese, Gavin, and Violet (Ben’s children)

She is also lovingly remembered and survived by her siblings: Ann Paradise, Gail Miller, Tom Gavin, Bitsy (Bernadette) Doro, Patsy Wolff, Mary Lopata, Bob Gavin, Ellie Lake, and Kay Wenzel. She was preceded in death by her brother, Jim Gavin. Her bond with her brothers and sisters was lifelong and filled with laughter, deep affection, and shared memories.

Funeral Services

Wake: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Peterson Kraemer Funeral Home & Crematory 1302 North 6th Street, Wausau, Wisconsin 54403

Visitation: Thursday, August 7, 2025 | 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. St. Mary’s Oratory, 325 Grand Avenue, Wausau, Wisconsin 54403

Requiem Mass: Thursday, August 7, 2025 | 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. A traditional Latin Requiem Mass will be offered for the repose of Joan’s soul.

Luncheon: Immediately following the Mass, all are warmly invited to share a meal and fellowship.

Rite of Christian Burial & Interment: Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 1399 Gate of Heaven Drive, Kronenwetter, Wisconsin 54455 The burial will follow the luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sacred Heart Retreat Center, 2457 Browns Lake Drive, Burlington, WI 53105, https://shrcburlington.org/support/   in honor of Joan’s lifelong devotion to her Catholic faith and love for quiet spiritual reflection.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the Aspirus Hospice House for the extraordinary care, comfort, and kindness they provided to Joan and her loved ones in her final days.

Joan’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love, faith, service, and tradition. She leaves behind a legacy woven through family, friendships, and countless warm memories. May her memory continue to inspire and comfort all who knew her.

“In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph.” – Our Lady of Fatima

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com