Joann Kristine Marotz passed away unexpectedly on May 24th, 2025, at the age of 75. Joann, known as Mom, Jo, Poncho, and most fondly as Gramma, was the heart and soul of her family.
Joann married the love of her life, Orland Marotz, on March 15th, 1969, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure.
Joann was a woman of many passions. She loved life in all its forms, especially when surrounded by family. Her greatest joy came from being a grandparent, and she often said, “I’m a Gramma, Grammas can do anything!” And truly, she could. Whether it was traveling, indulging her sweet tooth, or keeping everyone in stitches with her pranks, Joann lived with a zest for life that was unmatched.
A dedicated matriarch, Joann was the bedrock of her family, always loyal, selfless, and fiercely loving. She was known for her spunk, quick wit, her sparkle in her eye when she was up to something mischievous, and her infectious laugh. She never passed up a game of cards or breakfast with the girls, and she was a fierce competitor in Words with Friends (or, Friend, who lived in the land down under). Her friends, steadfast through the years, will remember her as the life of every party, the one who could bring joy and warmth into any room.
Joann leaves behind her beloved husband, Orland, her children: Jeff and Karen (Julian), her treasured grandchildren Tabitha (Shane), Daniyl, Jasmine (Reilly), Elliott and Amelia, as well as her great grandchildren Noah and Silas. She also leaves behind a number of loving in-laws, nieces, nephews and “the girls".
She is predeceased by her oldest son, Orland Marotz Jr., her parents, Earl and Grace Schneider, and her sister, Karen Schneider.
Joann will be remembered not just for her love, but for the impact she had on everyone around her. Her legacy is one of loyalty, kindness, and the ability to turn any moment into something unforgettable. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A celebration of Joann’s life will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the Maple Crest Funeral Home. Friends and family may gather on Monday, June 2, 2025 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the funeral home and again on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. We will gather to honor her memory and the countless ways she brightened their lives.
Rest in peace, Joann. You were, and always will be, a Gramma who could do anything.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Fisher House in Milwaukee (https://www.fisherhousewi.org)
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