Joan M. Koslowski

Joan Margaret Koslowski, 85, reached her goal of eternal life on Saturday, February 22, 2025. She was born on October 3, 1939, to Viler and Gertrude Zilisch. Joan graduated from St. Patrick Grade School and then Menasha High School. She married John Koslowski on July 25, 1959. They were blessed with four children, instilling in them the values of love, faith, thoughtfulness, and a strong work ethic. Joan was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She cherished time with family and friends, always bringing joy and laughter to gatherings.

While raising her family, Joan worked at several part-time positions. Two jobs where she made a huge impact were working full-time at the family business; Classic Printing and later, third shift at McCain Foods. Joan loved the opportunity to meet new people, both young and old. These two companies were where she demonstrated her strong work ethic, challenging her coworkers to keep up with her. They all tried but never could. More recently, Joan enjoyed baking, especially rolls, cookies, banana nut bread, and caramel corn. She was a fierce competitor of both cribbage and sheepshead playing for 5, 10,15 and enjoyed going to the casino with her friends and family.

Joan was a devoted member of the St. John Catholic Church for over 65 years. She was a member of The Lady Falcons, the St. John Rosary Society, a prayer chain caller, and a greeter at Masses. Joan had a strong devotion to the Blessed Mother and said the rosary every day.

Joan will be deeply missed by her loving children; Sue (Don) O’Connell, John Jr. (Tracey) Koslowski, Trish (Larry) Konetzke, and Keith Koslowski. She is further survived by 8 grandchildren; Dan (Forest) O’Connell, Katie (Tyler) Farley, Emily (Will) Primm, Jason (Maria) Koslowski, Corrin (Bryant) Richards, Sam (Leisa) Koslowski, Rebecca Konetzke, and 16 great-grandchildren. She is survived by 5 siblings; Elaine Harper, Ken (Mary Jo) Zilisch, Carrie (Bill) Stuck, Chris (Ken) Gambsky, Mary (Chuck) Groff, and sister-in-law Debbie Koslowski. In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her husband, John, her father and mother-in-law Chester and Mabel Koslowski, 3 brothers-in-law: Paul Harper, Jerry Koslowski, and James Koslowski.

A Catholic funeral mass and visitation will be on Friday February 28, 2025, at St. John The Baptist 516 DePere St. Menasha WI 54952. The visitation will be from 9 am to 11 am with mass starting at 11 am with Fr. Michael Lightner celebrating.

Known for her beautiful smile and delicious baked goods, Joan’s warmth and thoughtfulness touched everyone who knew her. Her memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

“Though our hearts are heavy, the angels rejoice as they welcome you home.” We miss you Mom and will love you always.