Joan Denzin

Joan Ann Denzin, age 81, formerly of Abbotsford, passed away on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Evergreen Park Assisted Living in Kronenwetter under the tender care of Interim Hospice.

A funeral service was held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at the Maurina-Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford. Family and friends were welcomed to greet the family starting at 9:30 a.m. until the time of the funeral on Tuesday. Interment followed at the Abbotsford Public Cemetery.

Joan was born on January 28, 1944, the daughter of Alvin and Evelyn Denzin in the Town of Holton. She attended Abbotsford Wright School until fifth grade and later attended a school for special needs for several years in Edgar.

Joan lived with her parents and brother on their family farm in the Town of Holton until 1998. She was a devoted helper, assisting with chores around the farm and later contributing to the family business, Denzin’s Green House. In 1998, she moved to Wausau with her mother, and in 2011, she transitioned to Evergreen Park Assisted Living in Kronenwetter, where she remained until her passing. Evergreen became her second family, and the love and care she received there were a testament to the deep bonds she formed.

Joan was born with an intellectual disability, but that never defined her. What truly defined Joan was her joyful spirit, her sense of humor, and the love she shared with everyone around her. She had a unique way of connecting with people—her smile could light up a room, and her loud, infectious laugh brought joy to all who heard it.

As a child, Joan spent countless hours outdoors, helping however she could—watering plants in the greenhouse, picking up sticks in the yard and watching the daily activity on the farm. She especially loved the animals, with the farm cats being her favorite companions. She enjoyed riding her three-wheeled tricycle around the yard and often sat at the picnic table or in the car, simply taking in the world around her. Joan had a creative side and loved doing arts and crafts, especially painting foam refrigerator magnets and pot holders. Summers were filled with cherished memories, including attending Camp Moon Beach in St. Germain with her nieces through United Church Camps. Joan learned the Pledge of Allegiance and shared it frequently with all those around her.

In her later years, Joan thrived at Evergreen Park Assisted Living. She deeply loved the women who cared for her, and the affection was clearly mutual. She also attended Aurora Adult Day Services for many years, where she especially enjoyed outings to local attractions around Wausau.

Joan may have had special needs, but more importantly, she was someone truly special to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her quick wit, often delivered in loud and funny remarks, made everyone laugh. Her presence was a gift, and her memory will continue to bring smiles to those who loved her.

She is survived by her brother, Gordon Denzin of Wausau; her favorite person/ nephew, Scott Denzin of Wausau; two nieces: Lisa (Derek Sant Angelo) Denzin of New Jersey and Keri (Chad) Semrau of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and an aunt, Barbara Umnus of Wausau. She has also been blessed with four great-nieces, two great-nephews, as well as cousins, aunts and uncles and extended family.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Alvin and Evelyn as well as several extended family members.

Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com.

http://www.maurinaschilling.com

Paid obituary 170662