Joan “Joanie” Barbara Richards (Holloway), passed away September 24 at the age of 78 at her home in Lakeport Square, Leesburg. Joan was born May 1, 1940 in Madison, WI to Katherine and Claude Holloway.
She graduated from Austin High School in 1958 and from the University of Wisconsin in 1962.
As a young woman, Joan focused her energy on supporting her first husband, who served in the U.S. Air Force and raising her three daughters. Joan was immensely creative and entertained her children and later grandchildren with the adventures of “Laura and the Magic Carpet,” a fictional character she created that took children on imaginary adventures around the world, introducing them to different people and cultures. Cookies were homemade and family dinners a priority, coming together and holding hands in prayer before every dinner reinforced that family is precious and our moments together fleeting.
Her brothers and sister will tell you she was a prankster and loved life. Her sense of humor and her sense of adventure led to many a good tale.
In addition to raising her three daughters, Joan’s passion for helping others led her to a career in Social Work. In her later years she continued her work as a hospice volunteer and grief counselor, as well as participating in variety of clubs. Never one to sit still, some of her most recent ventures include acting, singing and planning her next trip.
Joan was a strong woman and faced every adversity in her life with grace, a sense of her purpose and determination. She never stopped trying to be a better version of herself and knew whatever struggle lay before her God and her family were by her side. Her faith kept her strong and provided her with an unwavering sense of hope and conviction that tomorrow can always be better.
Joan will be remembered for her endless compassion, sense of humor and love of adventure.
Joan is survived by her husband, Glen, daughters Kelly, Susan and Deborah, four grandchildren and siblings Richard and Kathy.
Memorial services will take place in Fort Atkinson, WI, date to be determined.