Obituary of Joan Claussen

Joan M. Claussen (nee Russell) Joan M. Claussen passed away peacefully with her family by her side, Wednesday, January 14, 2015 at Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center. Age 72. Survived by her daughters, Marcy (Peter) Sartori, Merritt (Jim) Edson, and Margaret Claussen; five grandchildren, Gianna, Elena and Luke Sartori and Emma and Olivia Edson; sister, Peggi (Jack) Lynch, sisters-in-law, Ann Marie Russell and Grace Murphy; "sister-in-heart", Kathy Condon; dear friend, Judy Hadala; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Preceded in death by her husband, Paul K. (January 23, 2014); her parents, James C. and Margaret M. (nee O'Brien); brother, Jim Russell: sisters and brothers-in-law, Alice (George) Gunderson, Nancy (Fred) Kestel, George Claussen, Jim Murphy, and Kelly Lynch. Joan taught for many years in Joliet School District #86, taking time off to raise her family, and retired from teaching in 2005. She enjoyed time with her grandkids, outings with friends, crafting, gardening and quilting. Joan was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many. Her smile was contagious. We express our gratitude to her compassionate caregiver, Leida Kohsin. Funeral Services for Joan M. Claussen will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2015 at 8:45 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet to the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. Visitation Monday, 2-7 p.m. at the funeral home. For more information: 815-741-5500 or visit her Book of Memories at www.fredcdames.com