Joanne Katherine Misak

Joanne Misak, age 86, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, at Richard Owens Hospice, with her loving daughter, Jennifer Monge, by her side. Born October 29, 1938, Joanne lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep devotion, and simple joys.

She was united in marriage to Kenneth Misak on December 16, 1961, in Hennepin, Illinois. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and a steadfast dedication to family. Joanne was a devoted mother, cherished grandmother—known affectionately as “Nana”—and the quiet cornerstone of her family. Her greatest joy came from being surrounded by those she loved, a cup of coffee in hand and a powdered doughnut never too far away.

Joanne was a woman of humility and grace, living her life with quiet integrity and putting others before herself without ever seeking recognition. Her love for her family ran deep, and her impact will be felt for generations. Her late husband, Kenneth, perhaps said it best in one of his many heartfelt letters:

“Thank you, God for Joanne. She is a beautiful lady on the outside as well as the inside. She always puts others above herself. Thank you, God, for such a good mother and wife. Please take care of my wife and mother to my children.”

Joanne was preceded in death by her beloved husband Kenneth (2003); her siblings James Erwin, John “Jack” Erwin , and Pauline Marchiori.

She is survived by her children: Jennifer (Mark) Monge, Kendall (Audra) Misak, and Rodney (Roberta) Misak; and by her adored 8 grandchildren: Matthew, Justin, and Jake Monge; Nick Misak; Ava and Emily Bickerton; Stephen and Sara Misak.

Also surviving are her siblings: Shirley Boggio of Hennepin, Geraldine “Poni” Monroe of Chillicothe, Anna Christianson of Bureau, and Richard (Karen) Erwin of Bureau.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Camp Big Sky www.campbigsky.org, a camp just outside of Peoria dedicated to providing outdoor experiences for children and adults with disabilities. The family chose this organization in honor of Joanne’s dedication and loving role as caretaker to her husband, Ken, who was a paraplegic.

Joanne Misak’s legacy is one of quiet compassion, selfless love, and honest humility. She will be deeply missed, and forever remembered. A private family service will be held.