Joanne Buege

Joanne Buege, age 85, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026 surrounded by great love.

Born April 30, 1941, in Caledonia, Minn., to Harold and Ila Fay (née Besse) Schiltz, Joanne lived a life centered on family, faith, and friendship. On November 21, 1964, she married the love of her life, Robert Buege and together they shared nearly 57 years of marriage until Robert’s passing in September 2021.

Joanne began working at an early age at Albert’s Grocery Store. She later pursued her passion for cosmetology, attending La Crosse Beauty School and graduating in 1962. In 1966, she opened Joanne’s Beauty Salon, which she proudly owned and operated until her retirement in 2000.

Joanne was a devoted mother to Julie Lange (Tim Lange), Terry Buege (Bonnie Borchardt), Denise (Matthew) Sherrill, and Kristin Buege. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Sadie Lange (Steph Pinal), Emma (Andrew) Gilhart, Lydia Lange, Adam and Nick Buege, and Brody, Rhett, and Payton Sherrill. Few things brought Joanne more joy than watching her grandchildren participate in sports and celebrating their accomplishments.

Joanne enjoyed many travels throughout her life, creating lasting memories on trips to Hawaii and Europe, and to Texas, where she and Bob spent their winters together and enjoyed time away from the Minnesota cold. Those winters also brought Joanne many cherished friendships and joyful memories at Tip O’ Texas Park in Pharr. She especially loved the lively social atmosphere there – attending dances, participating in themed parties, and sharing countless laughs in the sun with friends who became like family. Back home, Joanne relished being a bit of a cardshark with friends at Ma Cal Grove Country Club and catching the first and largest fish of anyone in the boat. She also treasured day trips with her girlfriends, always looking forward to time spent together exploring, laughing, and making memories. In addition to her quick wit and savage one-liners, she will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and competitive spirit. Her presence created countless cherished memories for everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A dedicated and faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Joanne carried her deep faith with her throughout every season of her life. Her unwavering commitment to her church and her spirituality provided her with strength, comfort, and guidance over the years.

She is survived by her siblings Gary Schiltz, Steve Schiltz (Tammy), Eileen Jacobson, and Gail (George) Teff; sisters-in-law Marcella Althof and Gretchen Buege, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. 

Joanne was preceded in death by her beloved husband Robert, her parents Harold and Ila Fay Schiltz, brothers-in-law Glen (Catherine) and Wayne Buege, Don Althof, and Arvid Jacobson; and sisters-in-law Mary (Robert) Blair, Eleanor (Gary) Meyer, and Grace (Charles) Meyer.

She will be greatly missed, yet her family finds solace in her being reunited in Heaven with Bob and all of her loved ones who have gone before her. We love you and miss you, Mom!

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to family wishes.

Visitation will be Wednesday, May 27 from 4-7 p.m. at St. Mary’s Holy Family Hall, Caledonia. Prayer service will begin at 6 p.m.  

Visitation also on Thursday, May 28 from 10-10:45 a.m. at Holy Family Hall. A eulogy will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Caledonia. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. A funeral luncheon will be served in St. Mary’s Holy Family Hall. McCormick Funeral Home, Caledonia, is assisting the family.