Joan Rauwerdink

Joan was born March 13, 1931 in Sheboygan to Daniel and LuLu (Schmidt) Smies. She attended local schools and was a graduate of Sheboygan North High School. While in high school she sang in a trio in the school play, “Showboat”.

Joan worked for Sellinger Glove Co. and later in the office of H.C. Prange Co.

On October 20, 1950 Joan and John J. Rauwerdink were united in marriage at Hope Reformed Church. John, a former Sheboygan Police officer, preceded her in death on December 14, 2001.

Joan was a faithful member of Hope Reformed Church where she sang in the church choir, church trio and was a member of the Women’s Guild.

She enjoyed many memorable family camping trips and enjoyed sewing, embroidering, and reading, especially her Bible. Her family and friends were of utmost importance to her.

Joan is survived by her two daughters, Debora L. (Bob) Vander Schaaf of Orange City, IA and Donna J. Ray of Sheboygan; four grandchildren, Daniel (Kaitlyn) Vander Schaaf, Dustin Vander Schaaf, Isaiah Ray, and Carvella Ray; her sister, Jane De Witt of Joliet, IL; her sister-in-law, Mildred Rauwerdink of Sheboygan Falls; her brother-in-law, John Swart of Hingham, WI and other relatives and friends.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a precious infant son and her dear brother-in-law, William De Witt and many other dear brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law from John’s side of the family.

A Service in Celebration of Joan’s life will be held at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, May 22, 2013 at Hope Reformed Church. Rev. Bill TeWinkle, Pastor, will officiate. A time of visitation and support will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place at Sunrise Memorial Gardens.

A memorial fund has been established in her name for Milwaukee Rescue Mission and LIFE Outreach.

Her family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the many devoted caregivers and staff at the assisted living homes and the caring staff at St. Nicholas Hospital.

Joan had a very tender, caring, humble, and loving spirit. She will always be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and proud grandmother.