Joann Marion Moe, age 91, of Caledonia, Minn., passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, in her home with family by her side.
Joann was born in Trempealeau, Wis., on May 5, 1934, to Joseph and Olivia (Schmitt) Schwertel. She grew up and attended school in Trempealeau.
After school she began working at St. Francis Hospital in La Crosse, Wis., as a nurse’s aide. She mainly worked on the maternity floor and this is where her love of babies flourished. A few years later she met Garland Moe at the Avalon Dance Hall in La Crosse. They were married on May 20, 1954. A few years later they moved to the family farm in rural Caledonia, Minn., where together they continued to create a beautiful homestead.
Joann was a member of the Catholic Daughters and homemakers club. She enjoyed gardening, baking, sewing and playing cards. She participated in many craft and bake sales throughout her years, in which she became known as the lefse lady. She will be missed for her hospitality and delicious food, but mostly the smile when she was handed one of her grand or great-grand babies.
Joann is survived by her children Greg (Cindi) Moe, Colleen McKenzie, Bruce (Kit Brenan) Moe, Doug (Kimberly) Moe, Blaine (Connie) Moe, Rhonda (Mark) Kaelberer and Bradley Moe; 13 grandchildren: Becky (Isaac) Harmon, Trevor (Theresa) Moe, Todd (Kali) Moe, Lance (Cherrie) Moe, Christian (Kelly) McKenzie, Alissa (Adam Giannini) Moe, Hunter Moe, Rachel (Ben) Michelson, Chantelle (Levi) Mlinar, Autumn Moe, Jordan (Kelsey) Sorensen, Maranda (Brandon) Cruz, and McKenna Sorensen; and 14 great-grandchildren.
Joann was preceded in death by her husband Garland, parents Joseph and Olivia, sisters Marcene Seehafer and Marlene Schwertel, and daughter-in-law Chris (Greg) Moe.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 24 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Caledonia, Minn. Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. prior to service. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia, is assisting the family.