Joan M. Laird Obituary
Joan (Keuler) Laird, age 80, passed into new life on July 5, 2026. She is survived by daughters Sara (Nick) and Chrissy (Charlie), granddaughters Lauren, Natalie, Meghan and Allison, siblings Paul (Jane), Ray (Monica), Karen (Bob), Ken (Renee), Steve (Jeanne), Helen (Mike), Tony (Marcia), David (Lynne) and foster brother Todd. She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Ed. Joan will be remembered for her deep faith, generous heart, and the kindness she shared with everyone around her.
Joan grew up on a dairy farm in Chilton, Wisconsin, where she learned the values of hard work, faith, family, and perseverance. For a time with the School Sisters of St. Francis, she was known as Sister Loretta Joan and continued to live a life rooted in service, compassion, and quiet strength. Joan graduated from Alverno College in 1971 and started her career in nursing. She had a gift for making others feel cared for, whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or the intricate beauty she created in her cross-stitching, quilts, and garden.
She spent most of her adult life in Sussex and Menomonee Falls, where she built a home filled with love and remained deeply connected to her community. Throughout the years, Joan served St. James Catholic Church in many roles, offering her time and talents with humility and devotion.
One of Joan's greatest joys was being with her granddaughters, creating cherished memories and giving them the steady, nurturing presence only a grandmother can provide. She will forever be remembered as a role model of patience and love for all those who knew her. She never complained, despite facing many ailments and challenges throughout her life. In recent months, she was lovingly cared for by the compassionate staff at Congregational Home in Brookfield, whose kindness reflected the same care Joan so generously offered throughout her life.
Visitation for Joan will be held on Saturday, July 25, at St. James Catholic Church, W220 N6588 Town Line Rd., Menomonee Falls from 9:00 until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30. Burial will be at 2:40 at Wisconsin Memorial Park, 13235 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield. Please meet in the parking lot of the Family Center for the burial. Joan was a pillar of charitable giving so, in lieu of flowers, please give to the charity of your choice with Joan in mind.
