Joan Anne Kalinauskas (Lill), of rural Cazenovia, WI peacefully ascended to heaven on September 9, 2024, at 11:02 AM. Joan was born February 1, 1950, in Chicago, IL.

A strong and resilient woman, Joan faced every obstacle with unwavering determination, especially during her five-year battle with lung cancer, which she fought valiantly until the very end. Now, she is free from pain and at home with her Savior in Paradise.

Joan's love for her family knew no bounds. She was a devoted wife for 47 years to her beloved husband, John Kalinauskas. Together, they raised four successful children: Dominic, Mark (Norma), Jeremiah, and Emily. Joan was also a proud grandmother to Isaac, Abigail, Josiah (Grace), Elijah, Brittany, Kayla, Tyler and she cherished her one, soon to be two great-grandchildren. Additionally, Joan had sisters: Mae (John) Weber, Sandra Lill, Linda (Jeff) Raj, sister-in-Law Linda Lill, and sister-In-Law Elizabeth (Edward) Kremer as well as many nieces and nephews.

In her passing, Joan is reunited with her younger brother Lawrence Lill Jr. (Linda), her niece Stephanie Anne Clementi, her parents, Mae Newhouse-Lill and Lawrence Lill Sr., and In-laws Emma and Antanas Kalinauskas.

An adventurer at heart, Joan had a passion for travel and exploration. Her journeys often included trips to visit family, but she also relished spontaneous getaways to Las Vegas and other exciting destinations. Road trips with her daughter and her best friend were among her favorite adventures, as she embraced each opportunity without fear.

Joan was a hard worker, achieving success in every endeavor she pursued. During her early years, she along with John owned and operated Baraboo Printing in Baraboo, WI with skillful and excellent achievements for over 23 years. She also founded the PopIn Nanny Agency and developed it into a nationwide company dedicated to caring for children from coast to coast for over 20 years.

With a heart of gold, Joan would drop everything to help those in need, a testament to her unwavering support for family and friends.

Her love for Jesus was paramount. When faced with her cancer diagnosis, Joan turned to her faith, and her five-year journey became a powerful testament that inspired those around her. Even in the weeks leading up to her passing, she radiated excitement about reuniting with her Savior and loved ones in heaven. She embraced God's will wholeheartedly, knowing that all was well with her soul.

Joan was also a lifelong learner and a compassionate listener. She had a beautiful flower garden and was a world champion-level player of Words with Friends (Scrabble), enjoying the game for over 30 years, often beating her opponents.

Though Joan is deeply missed, we find peace in knowing she is now in the loving embrace of the Lord and is free from pain. She watches over us with a heart full of love while waiting for the day we are reunited in heaven.

A private memorial service will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to aid with medical expenses. Donations may be made through: Farber Funeral Home, 2000 Viking Drive P.O. Box 305, Reedsburg, WI 53959 (608-524-2339).