Joanne Wittek, Thorp… age 75, passed away on August 3, 2024 in Thorp surrounded by family after her four-year battle with melanoma.
She grew up on her family farm near Owen-Withee. She pursued a Bachelor of Science in Education from UW-River Falls in 1970. She served as the choir director for both Thorp Catholic Parochial School and Thorp High School in addition to various youth music activities. Joanne earned her Master’s degree in Education from UW-Eau Claire. She dedicated her career to teaching, serving as the Reading Specialist at Owen-Withee School District until her retirement in 2006.
During retirement, Joanne enjoyed gardening, traveling, and spending time with her grandchildren. She and her husband, David, spent winters in Tucson, AZ, where Joanne immersed herself in photography, participated in various choirs and bell tone groups, and found joy in creating stained glass art and painting. She is survived by her husband, David and family.