Joan E. Martin

(Nee Tamillo) Went home to God on Thursday, September 8, 2016 at the age of 65. Preceded in death by her husband, Big Bob and their two sons, Robert Jr. and Matthew, as well as, her parents, Joseph and Phyllis Tamillo, her sister, Mary and brother, Joe. Beloved “Mammy” of Robert III. Devoted sister of Lynn (James) Westfall, Theresa (Phillip) Graczyk, Pamela Beauchamp, Frances Slater, and Patricia Tamillo. Also survived by Bob’s siblings and their in laws, nieces, nephews, other relatives and countless dear friends.

Joan and Bob did everything together, so a celebration of their life will be held on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at the Basilica of St. Josaphat, 2333 South 6^th Street, Milwaukee, WI. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM with the Very Reverend James E. Lobacz presiding. Relatives and friends are welcome to join the family following the Mass at Mount Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Hunger Task Force in their name to carry on their desire to feed all they loved.

We lost a great one due to a tragic car accident. Those who knew Joan saw a spirited woman who was constantly giving to others. Service to others was what drove her. Catering for weddings and parties, working as a dedicated volunteer, first at St. Matthew Parish and later, at St. Josaphat Parish and School, were some examples of her giving spirit. Helping others provided her with some relief to withstand the grief of losing all three of her guys to premature deaths. She started out as a mother and wife at the age of 17. This became her main role throughout most of her adult life. After her boys passed, she took on the role of caregiver for numerous people. They became her new focus. She lived her faith as a giving mother to others who were struggling. Matthew 5:16 “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Joanie did not worry about ‘things’ in her life. She worried about the people around her and their needs and tried to assure them that they were not alone. The last couple of years she fought depression after Big Bob died and while she wanted to be with him, she accepted that ‘God’s will be done’. Our Father finally called Joanie home to be reunited with her beloved family.

A special thank you to Fr. Jim and Dr. Raymond Moy for helping Joanie get through some of her darkest times after the loss of her beloved Big Bob. Joan was never alone and well cared for in her final days because of Theresa Graczyk, Carri Haubert, the caring staff in the SICU at Froedtert Hospital and numerous family members and special friends who visited.