Joan E. McGinnis, 91 of Fort Atkinson passed away on Sunday, November 19, 2023 surrounded by family at Fort Memorial Hospital.

Joan was born on January 28, 1932 in Milwaukee to Clarence and Wanda (Machnicki) Gottschalk.  On June 21, 1952 Joan married Clifford McGinnis and together they had five children. Joan worked as a receptionist for Optometrist, Dr Hart.

Anyone who’s lives were touched by Joan would agree that she was one of the most kind-hearted, loving and caring human-beings you could ever hope to meet. She was extremely accepting of anyone and everyone regardless of any wrong doing they may have done.  She was a very simple person who never expected anything in return for her kindness.  She was a faithful member of the Fort Atkinson United Methodist Church.  Joan volunteered in the church nursery for many years and was a member of the Bible study.

She enjoyed, square-dancing, playing checkers with her granddaughter, Angela; and especially taking walks with her dog.  Joan was also a member of the Red Hat Society.  Her favorite movie was the Wizard of Oz and she enjoyed watching it over and over again.  She also loved ice cream, especially mint-chip from Frostie Freeze, and raspberry fruit.

Joan is survived by her children, Kathleen Kramer of Muskego, Sharon McGinnis of Milwaukee, Dawn (Steve) Armin of Hebron, Michael (Lori) McGinnis of Milwaukee, Patrick (Kelly) McGinnis of Waterford, Close Family Friend, Rick Grams; four grandchildren, Luke McGinnis, Samantha McGinnis, Katie (Patrick) Rock, Angela McGinnis; four great-grandchildren, Maddie, Emma, Millie and Charlie; sisters, Joyce Zimmerman of Muskego, Jeanne (Inars) Gruntals of New Jersey, Judy Yaeger of Texas; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Guinness of Chicago; brother-in-law, Bob Brabham of Wauwatosa; and beloved cousin and best friend, Kay Wilke of Milwaukee; four-legged companion, Muffin

She is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Wanda Gottschalk; husband, Clifford McGinnis; son-in-law, Todd Kramer; brothers-in-law, John Yaeger, Bill Zimmerman; and sister, Janet Brabham.

Donations can be made in Joan’s name to Touched by a Paw in Whitewater.

Funeral services will take place at 11AM on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at the Fort Atkinson United Methodist church.  Visitation will take place from 9AM until 11AM Service.  Entombment will take place at Wisconsin Memorial Park in Brookfield at 3:30PM.

The family would like to give special thanks to Joan’s Visiting Angles and Iris Caregivers for their exceptional care for Joan over several years, making it possible for Joan to live out her years at home.

Schneider-Michaelis Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences can be made at www.schneidermichaelisfuneralhome.com.