Meet JoAnn: A Life of Adventure, Passion, and Self-Sufficiency
In this month’s Resident Spotlight, we celebrate the adventurous and active life of JoAnn, fondly known as "A.J." to her family. With stories provided by her nephew, Tom, we’re excited to share JoAnn’s incredible journey from her vibrant youth in Lake Geneva to her passion for skiing, tennis, and beyond. Read on to discover more about this remarkable woman.
Growing Up:
JoAnn was born and raised in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. As the second oldest of seven siblings, she grew up in a lively household where family ties were strong. JoAnn shared a special bond with her sister Fran, who was Tom's mother. The Hanrahan family and other relatives often gathered together, with JoAnn being a constant presence at holiday celebrations.
Her grandfather, who lived with the family, played a significant role in their daily lives by taking on the responsibility of cooking for everyone. Summers in Lake Geneva were particularly memorable, as JoAnn and her siblings slept on the screened-in wrap-around porch to stay cool during the warm weather.
A Life Full of Adventures and Hobbies
JoAnn’s childhood laid the foundation for her lifelong love of adventure and physical activities. She became an avid skier, a passion that would follow her throughout her life. To fuel her skiing enthusiasm, JoAnn even owned a condo in Vail, Colorado, a place where she spent countless days gliding down the snowy slopes. Locally, she frequented ski resorts in northern Illinois with her ski club, ensuring she never missed out on her downhill skiing adventures.
Not just a skier, JoAnn was also a dedicated tennis player. She was a member of the Wheaton Tennis Club, where she played with members much younger than her, three days a week, until she moved to an Assisted Living facility in 2019. JoAnn’s active lifestyle extended to gardening as well, where she grew and preserved her own produce. Her green bean casserole, made from her garden's harvest, became a staple at every family gathering.
JoAnn’s love for bargains was evident in her frequent visits to garage sales, always on the lookout for a good deal. Whether it was walking, water skiing, or finding treasures at sales, JoAnn lived life to the fullest.
A Career of Dedication
JoAnn's career was as multifaceted as her hobbies. She worked as an office manager for a law firm in Chicago and later for a magazine company, also in Chicago. Her work ethic extended beyond the office as she successfully managed multiple rental properties throughout the northern suburbs, earning praise from her tenants for being an exceptional landlord.
A Lifetime of Memories
While JoAnn never married, she embraced life with her family. After high school, she spent a summer traveling through Europe with a girlfriend in their VW, sleeping in the car and meeting locals, which led to countless stories and unforgettable memories. She also participated in group vacations to Turkey and Mexico, always seeking new experiences and adventures.
JoAnn’s deep Catholic faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through both joyful and challenging times. Despite growing up during the Great Depression, she maintained a strong sense of independence, which she considered one of her greatest accomplishments.
The Next Chapter
In her later years, JoAnn moved into memory care at The Heathers, where her family found the perfect place to provide the care and stimulation she needed. Her nephew, Tom, recalls the joy they felt in finding a facility that exceeded their expectations. JoAnn’s caring nature and active involvement in family events have left a lasting impression on everyone who knows her.
Final Thoughts
JoAnn’s happiest memories are tied to her time in Lake Geneva, a place that always brought her joy. Even now, when visiting with family, a smile lights up her face when she jokes about “not getting into trouble.” JoAnn has been a crucial part of her family, attending countless soccer games, birthdays, holidays, graduations, and weddings. She will always be remembered as the most caring person, whose adventurous spirit and self-sufficiency left an indelible mark on those around her.
We’d like to thank Tom and JoAnn’s family for sharing these beautiful memories with us. We’re honored to have JoAnn as a cherished member of The Heathers Community.
