Joanne M. “Joanie” Brown, born on January 17, 1945, to John and Regina (Wittmann) Sadowski. Joanie passed away at Gundersen Hospital in La Crosse, on May 23, 2024 after courageous battle against AML cancer.
Joanie married James Brown on November 3, 1958, in Rice Lake, WI. Shortly after their marriage, they moved to Rockford, IL, where they started their family and were blessed with four children.
Joanie and her husband James A. Brown Jr. worked tirelessly, saving every penny to fulfill their dream of owning a dairy farm. Their hard work and determination paid off when they acquired their dairy farm a few miles outside of Yuba, WI. This farm became a sanctuary filled with cherished memories and a nurturing environment for their children. Their commitment to family extended beyond their own, as they warmly welcomed many relatives into their home, offering support, guidance, and a sense of belonging.
Joanie and James were among the pioneering 13 farmers who started Organic Valley, contributing to the growth and success of organic farming. Joanne had a deep passion for farming, gardening, and cooking, finding joy in preparing meals for everyone around her.
After Jim passed in 2009 Joanie kept the dairy farm going for another year. She decided to rent the land and take a job off the farm. She worked at Kickapoo School District (custodian), Thelen Farms (herdsperson), Sister’s Restaurant (cook) LaFarge Wi., Bull Pen Bar (cook) Hillsboro Wi., Hatfield Farms (herdsperson), Vernon Manor (cook) Viroqua Wi.
She is survived by her children; James A. Brown (Laura), Todd Brown, (Dawn Kruse), Candace Brown, and Kimberly Heal. 14 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren Siblings; Margie Bosteder, Jerry (Marsha) Sadowski, Jennifer (Dana) Heller, John (Val) Sadowski.
Joanie was preceded by her parents, John and Regina Sadowski, her brother, John, and sister Helen Daniels.
Joanie’s life was a testament to the values of hard work and love for family. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved her.
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. at the United Methodist Church – 225 N Washington St., Viola, WI 54664, with Pastor Johan Ferrer officiating. A time of visitation will be from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Burial will be in the Vernon Cemetery in the Town of Union, Vernon County.
The Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro is assisting with arrangements.
