Joan Lola Sodini, a cherished stay-at-home mother and homemaker, who touched the lives of many with her warm presence and kind heart, passed away on July 25, 2024, in Merrill, Wisconsin, surrounded by her beloved family. She was born in Lincoln County, Wisconsin, on March 26, 1936, to the late Lester and Katherine (Levitt) Bloomquist. She married Donald Lawrence Sodini on July 6, 1954, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill. He precedes her in death.
Throughout her life, Joan was known for her funny and stubborn nature, yet she carried a soft-spoken demeanor that endeared her to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She had a special way of making everyone feel loved by affectionately calling them “honey,” and her feisty spirit brought joy to those around her.
Joan found great joy in simple pleasures such as reading murder mysteries, Christian books, and romance novels. In her younger years, she enjoyed bowling and spent countless hours out on the water while boating with family and friends. Joan supported Don’s career as he traveled to many locations, foreign and domestic.They lived in various places such as Italy, England, Alaska, Key West, New England, New Hampshire, and Cleveland.
One of Joan’s proudest accomplishments was her generous spirit. She gave selflessly to causes close to her heart, including the Lincoln County Humane Society and The Diabetes Foundation.
Above all, Joan will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who was truly a blessing to her family. The memories she leaves behind are filled with love, laughter, and the legacy of a life well-lived.
Joan Lola Sodini is survived by herchildren: Vicki (Bill) Davis, Renee Greenhill, John (Natalie) Sodini, Mike (Laura) Sodini, and Michelle (Paul) Sodini Rubin, grandchildren: Jody (Jeremy) Allard, Jesse Kleinschmidt, Niko (Celia) Sodini, Kaleb Watts, Brittyn (Casey) Hill, Nicole (Brad) Baumann, Geno, Christian, Aiden, Lauren, and Mason Sodini, great-grandchildren: Blaze and Nadia Kleinschmidt, Johnny and Danielle Miller, Luca and Vincent “Vin” Sodini, sister-in-law: Joan Schramek and beloved dog: Moo Moo, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Joan is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, son, Jay Sodini, grandson, Don Miller, and siblings, L’Rae Klimek, and Kay Michalski.
The family of Joan would like to express a heartfelt thank you to Pastor Mike Southcombe, St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ in Merrill and the staff at the Marshfield Medical Center in Weston for all their care and guidance.
No services will be held at this time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lincoln County Humane Society in loving memory of Joan Sodini.
Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.