Joann Laura Schmitz, 82, of Clayton, passed away on March 10, 2026, at Cumberland Healthcare. Born on July 28, 1943, in Menomonie, Wisconsin, to Edward Valentine and Pearl (Halpin) Traxler, she grew up with a quiet curiosity that would stay with her throughout her life.
In 1965, Joann married Jerome Schmitz in Menomonie. Together they raised a family until Jerome’s death in 1996. She found simple, lasting joy in crocheting, needlepoint, and reading, and she held a particular fascination with the royal families of Europe and history in all its forms.
Joann is survived by her sons, Matthew Schmitz of Prescott and Philip Schmitz of Clayton; her daughter, Patricia Schmitz of Minneapolis; and many other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome Schmitz, and her sons, Andrew and Mark Schmitz.
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