MADISON - JoAnn Millard, age 80, of Madison, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2023, at Brookdale Madison West two months after being diagnosed with cancer. She was born on Sept. 18, 1943, in Fond du Lac, the daughter of Bernard Shafer and Grace Braatz.

JoAnn graduated from Rosendale High School in 1961. She met Robert Millard in college at Oshkosh and they were united in marriage on June 6, 1964, in Rosendale, Wis. JoAnn and Bob moved to St. Louis, Mo., shortly after getting married and lived there for five years. They moved back to Wisconsin and settled in Middleton in 1969.

In 1990, JoAnn quit her job to become a full-time grandma taking care of her grandchildren every day. She would say that this was the best “job” she ever had! Her grandchildren meant everything to her. She taught them many crafts and games, how to cook and sew, and she never hesitated to pull pranks on them. The kids loved it and still fondly remember their many experiences with Grandma when they were young.

JoAnn and Bob enjoyed traveling the country. They enjoyed yearly vacations with their longtime friends they met during their time in St. Louis. For many years, besides attending all home games, they traveled to almost all away Badgers football games and went to several Rose Bowls. They also traveled around the country going to NASCAR races as they followed their two sons’ careers.

JoAnn was a wonderful wife, mom, grandma, sister and friend and will be forever missed. JoAnn is survived by her husband, Robert; daughter, Tricia (Charles) Liberty; sons, Todd Millard and Matthew Millard; sister, Patricia (Charles) Michels; sister-in-law, Susan Shafer; and grandchildren, Erik Fredine, Danielle Fredine, Zachary Fredine and Alexander Fredine. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bernard and Grace Shafer; and brothers, John Shafer and Steve Shafer.

JoAnn’s family would like to thank the staff at Brookdale Madison West and Agrace HospiceCare for their care.

A celebration of life will be held at GUNDERSON WEST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 7435 University Ave., Middleton, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023. A short memorial service will follow beginning at 3 p.m.

Memorials may be gifted in JoAnn’s name to Agrace HospiceCare.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761

JoAnn Millard

September 18, 1943 - November 14, 2023

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