JoAnne M. Schranz

JoAnne M. Schranz, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully of natural causes on February 21, 2025, in Bridgeview, Illinois. Born on July 15, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, JoAnne's life was a tapestry of loving relationships, intellectual pursuits, and a commitment to her community.
JoAnne spent her formative years in Chicago, where she attended Lindblom Math and Science Academy. Her thirst for knowledge led her to Moraine Valley Community College, where she furthered her education. JoAnne's professional life included dedicated service at Sears Chicago Ridge and Home Depot Chicago Ridge, where she was well-respected by her colleagues for her thoughtful approach to her work.
Beyond her professional endeavors, JoAnne was deeply involved in associations that reflected her diverse interests. She was an active member of G.O.L.D "The Greater Oaklawn Diggers," a Gem and Mineral Society, where she shared her passion for the earth's treasures with like-minded enthusiasts. JoAnne's spirit of community engagement was further evidenced by her influential role in the startup of the Midwest Soarring Foundation along with her ex-husband, Joseph "Standing Bear" Schranz. Her love for the outdoors found a home at Indian Creek Ranch, where as an Associate Member, she enjoyed many years of camping at High Chaperal with her dear friend Richard Volkman.
JoAnne's life was exemplified by her loving nature. She was a kind and thoughtful individual, always putting the needs and happiness of others ahead of her own. Her legacy of love is carried on by her best friend and companion, George Johnson, who stood by her side through life's journey. JoAnne was the cherished sister of Joseph Bockwell and the late Stan Bockwell. She was a devoted mother to her sons, Leonard Phillips and Joseph "Tommy" Phillips, (wife Tracy Phillips) and her loving daughter and best friend, Suzanne E. Schranz (Doug).
JoAnne was a proud grandmother to her many grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life. She delighted in the achievements and adventures of Joseph Teandon (Erica), Daniel Teandon (Jessica), Melissa MacKay (Billy), Michael and Nina Schranz, Kaine Norris, Alexandria Zapata, Lenny and Coral Phillips, Jessie, Veronica, and Ana, and Orion and Delaney Phillips. Her great-grandchildren, Jamie, Emberlyn, Leonardo, Elias, Isaiah, Lil Billy, and Paxton "Pj" Phillips, will remember her for her endless warmth and the wisdom she imparted.
JoAnne's nurturing spirit extended to her role as a loving aunt to Joseph and Lisa Bockwell, children of Joseph Bockwell, and Alaina Bockwell, daughter of Stan and Carmalee Bockwell. Her family will forever hold dear the memories of her unconditional love and the comfort she provided.
JoAnne's influence and love knew no bounds. She touched the lives of many and will be fondly remembered not only for her actions but also for the grace and compassion with which she lived her life. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.
As we say goodbye to JoAnne M. Schranz, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, kindness, and thoughtfulness. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her, and her legacy will live on through the lives she touched.
JoAnne's life will be celebrated in the hearts of her family and friends, and her memory will be cherished forever. May she rest in peace, knowing that she has left the world a better place for having been in it.
Visitation, Thursday, February 27, 2025, 4:00PM to 8:00PM at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Avenue, Justice, Illinois.
Cremation rites to be accorded.