Joan A. O'Dell

Joan A. O’Dell (Klaus), age 97 of Menasha, WI passed away January 27, 2023.  She was born December 3, 1925 in Buchanan, WI.  She married the love of her life, Vernon O’Dell in November of 1949.  He preceded her in death in March of 1998. 

Joan was a lifelong member of St. Mary’s Catholic Parish in Menasha, WI.  Joan was also a long-time employee of Kimberly Clark in Neenah, WI, where she dominated the position of quality control. 

Being a keen observer, Joan could catch you off guard with a sense of humor that you never saw coming.  She was a very humorous woman who loved to spend time with friends whenever possible.  Vernon and Joan were avid animal lovers.  Joan liked order around the house in such forms as clean gutters, the mailbox standing tall, neatly trimmed bushes, a dry basement, and only a little salt on the walks. 

The ones who knew and loved Joan the most would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Gardenview Assisted Living and Aseracare Hospice who, together, gave Joan exceptionally special care for her last five years of life. 

Joan will be laid to rest at St. Mary Cemetery, Menasha next to Vernon during a graveside service in the Spring of 2023. 

Miss Me

When I come to the end of the

Road and the sun has set for me,

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room.

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little, but not too long

And not with your head bowed low.

Remember the love that we once

Shared.  Miss me, but let me go.

For this journey we all must take,

And each must go alone.

It’s all part of the Master plan,

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely

And sick of heart,

Go to the friends we know

And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds.

Miss me, but let me go.

In lieu of flowers, please adopt a dog, plant a tree, or donate to St. Mary’s Parish in honor of Joan.