• Memorial Visitation: Thursday, October 29, 2026 from 9:30 – 11 am at FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH (7520 W. Lapham Street. West Allis, Wisconsin)

• Memorial Service: Thursday, October 29, 2026 at 11 am at FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH (7520 W. Lapham Street. West Allis, Wisconsin)

Joan M. Thomae

(née Klusman, formerly Woods)

Passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and a family who adored her.

Joan was outgoing, full of energy, and always up for an adventure. Her fun-loving spirit started early, often getting into a little mischief, a tradition of laughter and good-natured trouble that followed her throughout her life. Whether you knew Joan for years or met her for just a few minutes, you quickly discovered she was someone you wouldn’t forget.

Joan and her beloved husband, Dennis, shared a love of travel and adventure, making memories exploring new places together. They also treasured time at home with their much-loved dog, Harley, and grand-pups, Blu and Opal.  Joan especially enjoyed the State Fair, Summerfest, church festivals, and trying her luck at the penny machines.

Joan was the heart of family gatherings, bringing everyone together for holidays and special occasions. She cherished her stepdaughters, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews, treating so many as her own children. She loved cheering on the Brewers and Packers and was an even bigger fan of attending her family’s school events. But Joan wasn’t one to simply sit back and watch the fun. She was often right in the middle of it, whether bringing smiles to crowds as a clown in parades, performing with the Golden Gals, or showing off her amazing hula-hooping skills. Joan was always willing to try something new, never afraid to be a little silly, and usually the life of the party.

Joan’s faith was a guiding force in her life. She was an active member of First United Methodist Church, where she volunteered her time and enjoyed serving others. Her generosity and compassion extended far beyond the church, earning her what could only be described as a PhD in Kindness.

Joan is survived by her husband, Dennis Thomae; stepdaughters, Laurie (Jeremy) Schlitt, Kelly (Manish) Khemchandani, and Jamie (Kaleb) Thomae ; grandchildren, Jacob (Alyssa) Schlitt, Ryan (Karin) Schlitt, and Damian Thomae; and great-granddaughter, Lainey Schlitt.

She is further survived by her siblings, Judy (Jack) Kuhlman, James (Sandra) Klusman, and Jean (Ken) Held; nieces and nephews, Mike (Sommer) Sasich, Matthew (Rachel) Kuhlman, Andrew (Heather) Kuhlman, Amber (Todd) Bray, Jessica (Paul) Zalar, Katherine (Ashley) Lambert, Melissa Klusman, Brittany (Alejandro) Azarian, Haley (Jeremy) Held, and Trever Held; along with many other family members and friends.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Rita Klusman, and her brother and sister-in-law, John and Cindy Klusman.

Joan will be remembered for her laughter, her adventurous spirit, and the way she embraced life. She leaves behind countless stories, wonderful memories, and more than a few people who were probably her partners in crime along the way.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23

Joan’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her medical teams, especially the Aurora Cancer Care team, for their compassionate care, kindness, and support throughout her journey. Their dedication to Joan’s comfort and well-being meant so much to her and her family.

A celebration of Joan’s life will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at FIRST UNITED MEHTODIST CHURCH (7520 W. Lapham Street. West Allis, Wisconsin). A memorial visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m.

When ordering flowers, please have any arrangements delivered to First United Methodist Church. If ordering online, please enter the church’s address for delivery.

HERITAGE FUNERAL HOME

414-321-7440

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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