Joanne Catherine Flanagan

Joanne Catherine Flanagan, age 55 of Harper Woods, died Friday, June 28, 2019 at Ascension St. John Hospital & Medical Center in Detroit. She was born April 24, 1964 in Detroit, daughter of Mary Theresa (nee: Jurkowski) Flanagan, and the late John Joseph Flanagan.

A horse trainer by trade, Joanne gave special meaning to the equestrian way of life for so many through her work. It was so much more than simply sharing the necessary techniques; Joanne possessed a unique sense of care and experience with our equine friends that translated to her many students and riders over the years. Yet her expertise enveloped so much more than merely the field of horses. Joanne was a gifted member of the human species whose immense knowledge of the animal species touched a plethora of hearts, both two & four legged alike, and truly set her apart for the incredible talents she held. Joanne was like the “whisperer” for so many different breeds of animals, and was the obvious go-to person when a need arose.

Yet of all the knowledge and wisdom Joanne held, there was none more importantly expressed nor shared than that which she poured out to her own two canine companions,…an Australian Shepard named, “Hula,”…and her American Staffordshire Terrier, “Skye.” Joanne was the consummate “Fur Mama” to her precious pups and extended the biggest part of her animal loving heart to their care. The love of an animal can make a world of difference in a day, and Joanne surely knew its relevance.

In her younger years, Joanne loved being on ice skates. As she honed her skills and stamina, she decided to dive in the pool of figure skating in which she ultimately became quite adept and graceful. It was a sport she grew to love, and one in which she would eventually compete with others for each coveted prize. For this young and aspiring athlete, she had wonderfully elegant and polished performers to show her the way as she entered each competition with confidence. And not just on ice, Joanne’s adroitness and talents were also witnessed in her performances as a Polish Halka Dancer. Dressed in the dances colorful and airy attire, Joanne loved taking the stage and joining her fellow steppers as they expressed their Polish heritage in a most unique fashion. It was just another layer of the talented woman that lie within.

Another of Joanne’s favorite pastimes was just chillin’ out and taking in some great tunes. She loved music of all kinds and wasn’t really particular in how it was filling her appetite,…except for the concert opportunities and venues that afforded Joanne that little bit extra. At home, the radio, 8-track player, record player, and cassette tape player could easily be “uploaded – 80’s style” with whatever music filled the bill at the moment. But when she got wind of a favorite band coming to town, getting concert tickets would put her over the moon with excitement. Joanne had amassed a storehouse of wonderful and memorable concerts she had enjoyed over the years, and the joy of sharing the same with many of her special friends.

She lived, laughed, and loved, and brought many along for the ride. Though she leaves our presence far too soon, it certainly is not without imparting the best and kindest aspects of who she was and how much she cared,…and how deeply her love was felt. She suffers NO MORE,…as she enjoys her horse rides and dances her Halka’s in a field of Four-Leaf Clovers, under a rainbow amidst a beautiful Heavenly sky. Along with ridin’ & dancin’, may she also rest in peace in those in-between times. She will be missed dearly.     

Joanne was the beloved daughter of Mary Theresa, and the late John Joseph Flanagan. Dearest sister of Ceil Flanagan, John (Melissa) Flanagan, and James “Jamie” (Colleen) Flanagan. Loving fiance of David Powell, and aunt to Jennifer Johnson, Kathryn Flanagan, and Colin Clark.

Visitation for Joanne will be held Monday, July 1st from 3-8 pm, with a 7 pm Rosary Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren.

She will lie in state on Tuesday from 8:30 am until time of the Funeral Mass at 9:30 am at St. Blase Catholic Church in Sterling Heights. Officiating the funeral liturgy will be Reverend Fr. Randy Phillips.

Please share memories of Joanne at her guest book below.