JoAnn Maxine VanSleet

JoAnn Maxine VanSleet, passed away on July 21, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on January 19, 1955, in Wausau, Wisconsin, JoAnn was the daughter of Harold and Josephine (Opichka) Williams. She grew up in Wausau, where she graduated from Newman High School, eventually earning her Associate's Degree in accounting. 

JoAnn married the love of her life, Robert VanSleet, on September 15, 1981, at St. Mary’s Church in Wausau. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. JoAnn devoted a great deal of her professional life to administration at Lincoln County Economic Development, but it was her role as a wife and mother that truly defined her.

JoAnn had a zest for life that was infectious. In her younger years, she enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, backpacking, and canoeing. She embraced the great outdoors with enthusiasm. As time went on, JoAnn became famous for her Christmas letters updating family and friends about the past year’s events. Cooking became more than a hobby. It was how she showed love. And, you could taste it! JoAnn was a warm and generous soul who put others before herself. 

She leaves behind her devoted husband, Robert, and her son, Eric (Danielle) VanSleet. JoAnn also leaves a loving family, including siblings Gary (Rebecca) Williams of Mosinee, Sandra (Geoff) Groshek of Mosinee, Keith (Christine) Williams of Merrill, Donald (Beth) Williams of Wausau, Ann (Steve) Osborne of Wausau, and Patrick (Tricia) Williams of Wausau, along with sister-in-law Francis Foley of Wausau, and brothers-in-law Donovan "Don" (Nancy) VanSleet of Wausau, Gary (Karrie) VanSleet of Chippewa Falls, and Bruce (Susan) VanSleet of Merrill, as well as many nieces and nephews. 

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Thomas Williams, along with in-laws, Valeria "Val" and Jay Turnmire, and brother-in-law John "Jack" Foley. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you share a good meal with your family and friends. Spread the kindness and generosity that JoAnn exuded every day of her life. 

Celebration of Life will take place at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, 301 S. Eagle Dr. in Merrill, Saturday, August 1, from 4pm-7pm. 

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation, Merrill, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com