Joanne Ruth Nowak

Joanne Nowak of Caro, age 93, passed away on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at her daughter's home in Gagetown. Joanne was born December 28, 1928 at home in Fairgrove, the daughter of the late Fred & Dorothy (Diehl) Krause. During her early years, she was active in the operation of the family farm and later worked at Prestolite in Bay City. She was united in marriage with Chester "Chet" Nowak on February 14, 1953 in Bay City. The couple cherished more than sixty-two years together prior to Chet's death in 2015. Joanne worked for many years as a bartender in the area before moving to Caro with Chet in 1970. Together, they opened United Farm Real Estate, each serving as brokers for many years. Joanne's final position was with Sears, first as a catalog clerk and later at the retail store in Caro. Her life was centered around family and cooking was her love language. More than eating, Joanne enjoyed watching her family gathered at the table, laughing, and enjoying her food that brought them together. She was known for her pie making skills, sharp wit, and strong opinions. She adored her grandchildren and remained their steadfast advocate to the end. Joanne possessed a natural love of people and genuinely enjoyed sharing stories and connecting with others. She was a lifelong member of the Lutheran faith and a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro since 1971. Joanne is survived by two children and their spouses, Fred & Cheryl Nowak of Bay City, Debra & Paul Fuller of Gagetown; four grandchildren and their spouses, Patrick & Lisa Nowak of Bay City, Stefanie & Travis Eyer of Fairgrove, Jacob Fuller of Gagetown, Andrea & Brian Davis of New Bern, North Carolina; seven great-grandchildren, Hudson Nowak of Bay City, Nolan and Pierce Eyer of Fairgrove, Abigayle and John Tyler Oliva, Kaylee and Jeffrey Davis, all of New Bern, North Carolina; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Joanne was preceded in death by three siblings, Marie Greenia, Harold Krause, and Freddie Krause. In keeping with Joanne's wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Compassus Hospice for the loving care provided to Joanne in her final days. The family was assisted with these arrangements by the Ransford Collon Funeral Home of Caro. Friends may share memories, thoughts, and prayers online at www.RansfordCollon.com.