Joan Mary Kohlhaas, age 81, of Lodi, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025 in her home. Joan lived a life defined not by the hardships she endured, but by the grace, resilience, and joy with which she faced them.

Joan was born on April 13, 1944, in La Crosse, the daughter of Joseph and Mary Ellen (Scoville) McNamara. Joan’s father was serving in the Pacific Theatre in World War II and found out about the birth of Joan via telegram.

Joan was raised in the picturesque town of Ferryville, nestled along the Mississippi River. Her childhood was filled with the values that would guide her throughout her life: faith, family, hard work, and compassion.

She attended Aquinas High School in La Crosse, WI. It was during these formative years that she met the love of her life, Bob Anderson, a bright and ambitious young man studying to be a Science Teacher at UW-La Crosse. Their connection was immediate and enduring. They started off together in Alma WI.

Joan and Bob eventually settled in Blue River, Wisconsin, where they raised three children. Their home was a place of open doors and unconditional love. Tragically, Bob passed away at the young age of 42. Joan never allowed grief to define her. She chose instead to live with courage, grace, and an unshakable positivity that inspired everyone who knew her.

Joan married Charles Kohlhaas in 1990 while she was working as an Office Manager at a Technical College in Viroqua, WI. Charles died in 2017 where they lived for many years in Ferryville WI.

Joan spoke often and proudly of her family to friends, neighbors, and even strangers, her eyes lighting up with joy as she shared stories of their accomplishments and adventures.

She was a wonderful mother, a loving grandmother, and a proud great-grandmother.

Joan (known as “GG” to her great grandchildren) often stated that seeing her great grandchildren could brighten up the entire week.

Her family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all who supported Joan throughout her life. Your kindness and compassion meant the world to her and to those who loved her.

Joan’s spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with those she loved so dearly.

Joan is survived by her two sons; Robert (Amy) Anderson, and Marcus (Jodi) Anderson; five grandchildren, Mara (Cody) Fritz, Emily (Jacob) Donovan, Robert Luke (Katie) Anderson, Liam Anderson, and Graham Anderson; seven great grandchildren; two sisters, Patsy (Don) McGuire, and Rita Crowley; and other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Lauri Anderson; her parents; and sister, Mary Ann Mellem.

Memorial Mass will be held at ST. MAXIMILIAN KOLBE PASTORATE AT ST. PATRICK CHURCH, LODI, 521 Fair St, Lodi, at 11 am, Wednesday, September 24, 2025, with Fr. Joseph Baker officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 am until the time of the Mass on Wednesday. A lunch will follow Mass in the Church cafeteria.

Memorials may be made to St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Lodi WI.

For more information and online condolences please visit www.gundersonfh.com

Gunderson Lodi

Funeral & Cremation Care

157 S. Main St.

(608) 592-3201

Joan Mary Kohlhaas

April 13, 1944 - September 17, 2025

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