Joan Wagner, 90, of Algoma, passed away on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Algoma Long Term Care Unit. She was born May 30, 1932, in Algoma, to the late Rufus “Mungo” and Ella (Nelson) Laurent. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School, Algoma and graduated from Algoma High School. After Joan’s three children were in the 4th,3rd, and 1st grade, Joan entered the Door/Kewaunee Teachers College. Later while teaching full-time, she attended Silver Lake College, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education. She taught for two years at both Gregorville School and Rio Creek School. She then spent 36 years teaching for the Algoma School District. After her retirement, Joan continued to substitute teach. In addition to teaching, Joan enjoyed working with the girl scouts, volunteering at the Algoma Information Center, and working at Wienke’s Market. She also enjoyed taking art classes and opened her own gallery at Neto Palazo in Algoma. Joan was proud of her Norwegian heritage and passing on the art of lefsa making to her grandchildren. In her free time, she enjoyed reading, golfing, and puzzles of all kinds.
Joan is survived by her children Charles (Monica) Wagner, Luxemburg, Linda (Ron) Buelow, Clintonville, and Peter (Gayla) Wagner, Maplewood. She is further survived by her children’s father Elton Wagner; grandchildren, Heidi DeBaker, A.J. Wagner, Kris, Jessica, and Jed Buelow, and Krista Hau; step grandchildren April Grosbeier, Scott and Brian Servaes, and Jenelle Christen; and numerous great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Rufus and Ella Laurent; and one sister and brother-in-law Elizabeth (Louie) Roffers.
Visitation will be held at Kinnard Funeral & Cremation Services – Algoma, 1617 Flora Ave. from 1:00 – 4:00 pm Sunday June 11, 2023. Funeral Service will take place at the funeral home at 4 p.m. with Deacon Bob Miller officiating. Online condolence messages may be shared at KinnardFCS.com.