Joan S. Ford

Ford, Joan S. "Jo" MADISON/ WAUKESHA Joan S. "Jo" Ford died of pancreatic cancer at the HospiceCare Center in Fitchburg, on Monday, Nov. 17, 2008, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Sheboygan, on Oct. 6, 1930, to Clarence and Ella Knauf. She graduated from North High in 1949 and attended UW-Sheboygan. In 1954, Joan married Buel F. Ford, an Army officer at Camp Haven. In the early 1960s, her family moved to Waukesha, when her husband was appointed the Waukesha County Veterans Service Officer, after 21 years of military service. Buel died an untimely death in 1986, after serving Veterans and their families for nearly 23 years. Joan moved to Madison several years ago to be closer to her family, where she continued her passionate interest in politics and current events. She had a great sense of humor and was a light in many peoples lives. Joan was a person of deep and enduring compassion which she freely shared with her family, and the many friends who loved her. She will be deeply missed by her children whom she devoted her life to: Kelly (Nancy) Ford of Glenview, Ill., Kate Ford (Michael) Roberts of Madison, Dr. Michael (Deborah) Ford of Springdale, and Mary-Bridget (Todd) Christiansen of Spring Green. Joan is also survived by ten adored grandchildren, Kylie and Ryan Ford, Brigid Roberts, Patrick, Timothy, Jeremy, Kelsey, Connor and Molly Ford, and Spencer Christiansen; and her sisters-in-law, Marion and Kay Knauf. She is further survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as dear friends in Sheboygan, Waukesha and Madison. Joan was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, John and James Knauf. A gathering celebrating Jos life will begin at 12 noon, followed by a service at 2 p.m. at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2008. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Palliative Care Program, or to HospiceCare Inc. of Madison. "May the Good Lord take a liking to you,... but not too soon!" Gunderson East Funeral and Cremation Centers 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420 www.gundersonfh.com