JOAN STREBEL

Joan Strebel died peacefully at home on January 16th, 2023 at age 87. 

Joan was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin and graduated with a degree in education from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.  She was a naturally gifted and devoted elementary school teacher in Beloit and Madison.  Her brother introduced his best friend, Ron to her and he quickly became the love of her life to whom she was married for 56 years. Stepping away from teaching, she then dedicated her life to raising her five daughters. 

A woman of enthusiasm and vigor, she was engaged in many community and social activities.  Joan was a master gardener, bridge player, dedicated volunteer, tennis player, and avid reader.  Always up for a party, she brought a liveliness along with her signature centerpiece cut from her flower garden.

She created a home where her family loved to gather: a home of family traditions, warmth, good meals, and playful activity. This was most apparent with her ten grandchildren who lovingly called her their “fun-size Gram.”  Gram was often seen on the floor playing games, dancing, watching them swim, and pulling her wagon through the garden as she shared her gardening wisdom.

Joan is preceded in death by her husband Ronald Strebel; brother, Milan Jeckle; and sister, Viola Peeters.  She is survived by daughters: Cynthia (Jim) Luckie; Renee Schubert; Laura Sheedy; Pamela (Dan) Breitkopf; Jodi (David) Gaskill; and grandchildren: Austin Luckie; Jenny Luckie; Brennan Sheedy; Bryce Sheedy; Anna Sheedy; Andrew Netzel; Lauren Netzel; Alexa Gaskill; Olivia Gaskill; Jake Gaskill; and sisters: Gloria Liebert and Darlene DeGroot.

She will be laid to rest at Saint Margaret's Cemetery and a private celebration of life will be held.  The family would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Steve Knaus and his team, Thedacare at Home Hospice, Home Care Assistance and Cathy Dominowski.