Joan Russow, 88, of Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026.
Born in New Haven, Connecticut, to Samuel and Helen Gangster, Joan carried her warm New England spirit throughout her life. She later moved to Illinois, where she worked for Illinois Bell and met her husband, William Russow. After retiring, they settled in Wisconsin, enjoying the beauty of the Northwoods and the close-knit community.
Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Helen Gangster; her husband, William Russow; her son, Keith Seale; her stepson, Jim Russow; her brother, Harry Gangster (Charlotte); and her grandson, Nathan Russow.
She is survived by her stepson, Dave Russow (Yvonne); her daughter-in-law, Patricia Russow; her brother-in-law, Robert Russow, and his wife Melodee, with their children Randy (Laura), Joe, Tom, and Tim (Vicki); her grandchildren, Alyssa, Lauren, Jordan, and Phi Houng; and nieces and nephew, Cheryl, Daren, and Dennis Gangster.
Joan loved lake life and the simple pleasures it brought—quiet mornings by the water, the beauty of the outdoors, and laughter with friends at Webers and Murmuring Waters. She especially treasured the friendships she built there over the years. Joan will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and the many memories she created with those who knew and loved her. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
In keeping with the family’s wishes, services will be private. In lieu of flowers memorials May made to the American Heart Association.
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Love from all your Northwoods friends The Moscato and funions are waiting 💞