MCFARLAND - Joanne Mary Splinter, age 71, of McFarland, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, February 21, 2026, after a long battle with Hemochromatosis. She was born on November 29, 1954, in Janesville, the daughter of John "Mac" and Mary Elizabeth “Liz” (Stack) McCarthy.

In 1973, Joanne graduated from Parker High School in Janesville. That same year, on March 3, she married the love of her life, Donald Splinter, in Janesville.

Joanne spent many years working in retail at Saxer’s Sporting Goods and McFarland Centre Pharmacy before retiring. She found great purpose in volunteering with Meals on Wheels in McFarland, where she was honored with their Special Caregiver Award in recognition of her kindness and compassion.

Joanne’s greatest joy was spending time with the people she loved. Some of her happiest moments were spent gathered around the kitchen table, talking and laughing with friends and family. When her children were young, she cherished their camping trips on the Mississippi sandbars, and she loved traveling with her husband, Don - especially their trips to Country Jam. Joanne also found immense pride and happiness in watching her son, Matt, play softball. Her life was woven with simple, beautiful moments shared with those who meant the most to her, and these memories will forever be treasured by all who knew her.

Joanne is survived by her husband, Donald; her daughters, Gayle (Curt) Splinter Sharkey and Sondra (Mike Price) Splinter; her granddaughter, Cassie Sharkey; and her four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Diane Koeberl; sisters-in-law, Susan Buttchen, Patty (Rollie) Manthei and Brenda (Roger) Quick; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Joanne was preceded in death by her son, Matthew Splinter; her parents, Mac and Liz McCarthy; her in-laws, Frank and Mary Splinter; her brother, John “JJ” McCarthy; her sister, Sue Hayes; and brother-in-law, Bill Koeberl.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 12 noon on Monday, March 2, 2026. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2026, and also from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to JDRF and Epilepsy Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Joanne M. Splinter

November 29, 1954 - February 21, 2026

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