Joanne Elizabeth Vander Meulen

Joanne Elizabeth Vander Meulen, 87, of Caseville passed away suddenly Thursday, February 24, 2022 surrounded by family at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak.

Joanne was born February 8, 1935 in Detroit to the late Hugh and Betty (DeFrain) Conners. She grew up in Topinabee, Michigan where she enjoyed windsurfing on ice, skating and beginning education in a one room schoolhouse. She graduated from Central Michigan University and was a proud member of Tri Sigma Sorority. Joanne later earned a Master’s Degree in Education while raising five children.

Joanne met Alphonse in Caseville while in college and they were married June 22, 1957 at St. Ann Catholic Church in Warren; he preceded her in death November 23, 2012. Joanne taught in Detroit Catholic Schools for over 35 years. Upon retirement Joanne and Al moved to Caseville enjoying good times with family and friends. Joanne especially liked big family get-togethers, often frying up her famous perch to the delight of all. She was fond of reading novels, lunching with friends, tracking the weather and traveling. In addition she was very involved in the community, church and government.

Joanne is survived by her children Anna (Wayne) Curtis of Sterling Heights, Ronald (Terri) of Lake Orion, Mark of Sebewaing, and Joseph of Lapeer; seven grandchildren: Jason, Amanda, Thomas (Kate), Mark Jr., Justin, Lucas, and Matthew; one great-grandson Jack; also many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her son Thomas and brothers Jerry and Jimmy.

A funeral mass will be 10:00 Tuesday, March 1st at St. Roch Catholic Church with Fr. Robert Pare presiding. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton Twp. Visitation will be 2-7pm Monday at the Champagne Funeral Chapel in Pigeon.

Memorials may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Caseville.