JoAnn Sowinski

JoAnn Sowinski, age 85, of Wausau, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Aspirus Hospice House in Wausau.

JoAnn was born on July 2, 1940, in Wausau, Wisconsin, the daughter of Wesley Barttelt and Mary Ann Barttelt. Her father, Wesley, left to serve his country and was killed in action during World War II. She was later adopted by her mother’s second husband, Elmer Wimmer Sr.

On October 8, 1960, JoAnn married the first love of her life and father of her children, Chester “Chet” Sowinski Jr.. They shared 25 wonderful years together until his passing in 1985. She later met Anton “Tony” Podhora, her devoted partner for nearly 41 years.

JoAnn spent most of her career as a factory worker, dedicating 34 years to Marathon Rubber Products until its closing, followed by more than a decade at Kolbe Windows & Doors.

She had a lifelong love for the Northwoods and treasured every moment at the cottage she and Chet purchased. Countless weekends were spent there with family and friends. When her grandchildren were young, she delighted in feeding the “coons” day old treats just to watch them wander up at night—then waking everyone to witness their feisty antics. It quickly became a cherished highlight of every trip.

JoAnn also enjoyed her frequent casino visits, quiet afternoons spent bird watching, and long, heartfelt phone conversations with family. Holidays were always about being together; Christmas Eve was first celebrated at Grandma’s house, and later the tradition continued at Jim’s as the family grew and welcomed great grandchildren.

JoAnn is survived by her partner, Tony Podhora; her son, James “Jim” (Dorianne) Sowinski; grandchildren Beth (John) Hopperdietzel, Rebecca, Amy, Mike (Misty), and Ashley Sowinski; great grandchildren Dakota (Sam), Santana (Kylor), Quinton, ToriLynn (Hunter), Austin, Landon, Zachary, Nickalas, Jackson, and Annaleese; and great great grandchildren Bellamy, Hazel, and one expected in June 2026.

She is also survived by Tony’s sons Tony (Christy) Jr., Scott (Mary), and Robert (Rob); Tony’s grandchildren Jeffrey (Asta), Kerrie, Zach, and Max; her brothers Gene, Elmer Jr. (Judy), Keith (Cindie), David, and Patrick Wimmer; and her sisters Rose (Steve) Miller and Barb (Ken) Zunker.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wesley Barttelt, Mary Ann and Elmer Wimmer Sr.; her husband, Chet Sowinski; her children Donna and Robert “Bobby” Sowinski; and her great grandson, Coltyn Sowinski.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau, with burial to follow at Restlawn Memorial Park.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.