Joan M. Schappert

Joan M. Schappert, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, peacefully departed this world on October 17, 2026, in the comforting presence of her daughter Kay Ann and daughter-in-law Diane. Born on December 13, 1941, in the serene surroundings of French Island, Wisconsin, Joan was the cherished daughter of Joe and Katherine Hellerude. Joan was the heart of her family, always gentle and quietly strong. She was predeceased by her parents, brothers, brothers-in-law, a granddaughter, and a great-granddaughter, yet her legacy lives on through the love she imparted to her surviving family members. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Bernard D. Schappert, with whom she shared a beautiful marriage since June 25, 1982—an enduring partnership that began at the Salvation Army in La Crosse, WI. United in faith, Joan and Bernie dedicated much of their lives to serving their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in various roles within "The Army." Joan's family was her world. She was a loving mother to Kay (Jim) Hohlfeld, Dan (Diane) Braatz, Susan Schappert, and Shawn Yeske, her grandson whom she had the privilege to raise as her own. Her love extended to her "quiver full" of grandchildren and four beautiful great-granddaughters. Joan's home was always open, and her table always had room for one more, a testament to her generous spirit. Throughout her life, Joan wore many professional hats. From her role as head housekeeper to managing the Salvation Army Emergency Lodge, from running the Salvation Army kitchen to working as a laundress and dry cleaner, she did it all with a smile. Her fondest memories were the times she spent at the Salvation Army, where she could express her love for others and her faith in Jesus through her work. Joan was also known to take the wheel of a bus or two, always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. Joan had a talent for crocheting and working with plastic canvas, and she loved to read and support Bernie in all his projects. Her grandchildren fondly recall her as a quiet, gentle woman, though she was known to express her "wrath" humorously if someone did something "silly," leading them to affectionately dub her "Grandma Joan is Scary!!" 

A service to honor Joan's life will be held on November 7, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at the La Crosse Community Church of the Nazarene, located at 1831 George St., La Crosse, WI. There will be a private burial service on Monday November 9, 2026. Joan's legacy of love, faith, and kindness will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate to know her.