Joan Mary Opgenorth

Joan Mary Opgenorth (nee Wahlen) was born October 21, 1928 and found everlasting peace on December 15, 2025 at the age of 97.

She was the last surviving sibling of nine, which included her amazing twin brother Jim. Joan was married for 46 years to her wonderful husband, Donald, who preceded her in death on December 16, 2000. Devoted mother to the late Marie Opgenorth. Loving mother to Tom (Donna) Opgenorth and Judith (Bryon) Obluck. Proud grandmother of Hayley (Matt) Nicolosi and John (Kelsey) Opgenorth. Dear great grandmother to Maxwell Nicolosi. Also survived by many kind nieces and nephews and her dear friend Elaine Guetz.

Joan was an incredible baker and gracious hostess. She was a wicked card player. Every party had multiple Lazy Susans filled with candy and salty snacks. She was famous for her Peanut Squares, 6-Layer Poppy Seed Cake, Apple Brown Betty and Schaum Torte. She loved a good Martini, Brandy Manhattan or PBR. She was never much of a reader or TV watcher even in her later years. She loved snap dragons and pansies and planted them every year below the kitchen bay window.

Years ago she enjoyed neighborhood walks. She kept an immaculately clean house and meticulously maintained yard. She had a unique 4-pole system and every day in the warmer months she would hang laundry outside. Neighbors to the north had very good senses of humor. One summer day they hung the largest bra ever made on mom’s laundry line. Mom was very embarrassed, but we kids thought it was hilarious. Joan will be remembered by many for her blunt, honest and often extremely funny observations.

Special thank you to Linden Grove in New Berlin and Common Heart Hospice for their compassionate care of Joan.

Private services were held per Joan’s request.

Memorials in Joan’s honor can be made to the charity of your choice.