October 5, 1936 – March 15, 2020
Joanne S. Grunau, age 83, of St. Michael passed away on Sunday, March 15th, 2020. She was born on October 5, 1936 in Berkeley, California the daughter of James & Alice (Taylor) Martin.
Joanne was formerly employed in the payroll department of Greyhound in San Francisco since she was 19. After retiring in 1991, she then moved to Minnesota to be closer to her children and grandchildren. She became a greeter at Walmart in Buffalo for another 15 years. Joanne loved greeting and talking with the customers.
She enjoyed writing letters to many pen-pals. Joanne was also fond of spending time with her family, giving cards, angels, music, bingo, dining out and playing scrabble.
Survived by three daughters: Nancy Reiss and fiancé Roger Raleigh of Annandale, Kathy “Sunny” Gilmartin of Ankeny, Iowa and Barb Hanks of Monticello; fifteen grandchildren, over thirty great grandchildren; siblings: David (Gwen) Martin, Janice (Gary) King and Jeanne Martin; other relatives and friends.
Preceded in death by her parents, a son Bob Grunau and by a sister Donna Welch.
Private family services for Joanne Grunau will be held on Saturday, March 21st, 2020 at The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo. Interment Lakeview Cemetery.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 1st beginning at 12 Noon at The Clearwater-Pleasant County Park in Annandale.
My sister Joanne was an influence on me, by her warm and caring ways. She loved being around people and would reach out to strangers. As a Christian she is in the presence of the Lord. We will see her again and be with her for eternity.
I have known Joanne since high school. We have been friends all these years and have stayed in touch. Joanne was a kind loving person. Very thoughtful. She will be missed.