JoAnn Marie Miller
March 26, 2012
JoAnn Marie Miller, 59, ended her journey with ALS on Monday, March 26, 2012 in the home she created. Services will be held on Thursday, March 29, 2012 at 12:00 noon at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service.
Born on January 1, 1953 to Emma and John Novak in Decorah, Iowa; JoAnn grew up in Spillville, IA and for many years worked for Sara Lee in New Hampton, IA , where she raised her kids, before moving to Des Moines and joining Hockenberg Newburgh. Her friends at Hockenberg were like family to her. They have always loved and supported her in ways beyond belief.
JoAnn was a gregarious personality with a strong work ethic and music in her heart. Her smile lit up a room and her wonderful sense of humor, wit and high energy drew people to her. She was very artistic and was a gifted decorator and gardener. She enjoyed shopping flea markets and antique shops and created wonderful décor from her finds. She loved to be outside in her little gardens playing with her flowers and singing with the birds. She even named one of the birds “Emma”. When she wasn’t digging in the dirt, she was laughing and entertaining her friends and neighbors with Dave on their beautiful deck. Those were her best times.
JoAnn adored her grandchildren and was never without a gift when she saw them. She looked forward to every moment she could see them dance, cheer, play sports or music, or just be goofy. She would never miss a birthday and her grandkids always new their grandma would be decorating their cake, however they wanted it. They were always over the top. Her husband and soul-mate for 16 years, Dave, gave her the nickname “Cakers” which she went by for years.
JoAnn’s memory will be cherished by her husband, David; daughter, Lisa (Reed) Pryor; son, Steven (Sarah Updegraff) Murray; grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Chase and Dylan Pryor, and Jenna and Cade Murray; step-children, Andrew Miller and Lindsey (Carl) Hansen; step-grandchildren, Nathaniel and Elysia Hansen; her siblings, Phyllis (Alvin) Mashek, John (Viola) Novak, Tami (Cliff) Dow and David Novak.
On her last journal entry JoAnn made she said this:
“I’m worried that my children, grandkids, and family will be sad that I am gone. But I want them all to know that I am very proud to be in such a great and fun family. I’ve had so many fun and great memories of my beautiful family. I pray they find comfort when I’m gone and that they all will see me and think of me every time there’s a rainbow in the sky and flowers in their gardens or fields. I LOVE YOU AND KNOW THAT I AM ALWAYS WITH YOU!!!!”
Memorial contributions may be directed to the ALS Association of Iowa. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Dixie Opperman
03/28/2012
Joann, my wonderful friend. My heart grieves and misses you, but also smiles because I know that you have moved on to a more glorious place where your vivacious, energetic style shines through, with just a touch of naughty.:)
I will always carry all the wonderful memories we've shared throughout the past 35 years. We have accumulated so many good friends and acquaintances throughout the years. Little did we know when we met so long ago (God, we were young) that it would be one that would be so cherished. We just had to say "OMG, do you remember when we?" or "What were we thinking when we...?" or "Can you believe when we...?" And then laugh, always laugh. We have grown to such prosperous, professional, spiritual women throughout the years. We have loving families who care about each other. What a gift.
They say that good friends can just pick up no matter where and when they left off from the last time they talked. We have done it well so far, I'm counting on it that we'll continue doing so just in another way.
I pray for your family to sustain their strength and support each other in the days ahead. You have been such a light in their life and it'll be a big transition without your smiling face. I know you'll be there to guide them daily.
Hugs...
Dixie
Larry and Peggy Novak
03/28/2012
Dave and family,
We were so sorry to hear of JoAnn's passing. We knew of the ALS but didn't know that it had progressed this far.
I remember cousin JoAnn was something special growing up. Didn't seem like a lot bothered her and she was always in a great mood. And what a great smile!
Peg remembered growing up with JoAnn and hanging out together. We were reminiscing today about those days in school.
When you grow up in a small town like Spillville, special people stand out. JoAnn did with her vibrant personality and energy level.
She will be missed but as she said in her journal, she will always be with you.
Memories of her will be with all of us.
God Bless you and your family.
Larry and Peggy Novak and Families
Tom and Connie Straw
03/28/2012
Oh....Jo-Jo......how sad I am for family and friends to lose you at such a young age. We lost a good one when Jesus took her home. We have lots and lots of memories of good times in New Hampton with the wrestling team and trying to keep track of Steve and Brian. I will just bet she was the best grandma ever! That was just her style....even though I haven't seen her is quite some time, I miss my friend....Rest In Peace...May memories help fill the void for those of us left behind.
John McEnany
03/28/2012
Steve and family:
I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. I know you loved her dearly, and will cherish many fond memories. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
With deepest sympathy,
John
Tom Novak
03/28/2012
David and family,
I extend my deepest sympathies to you and your family in the loss of JoAnn and regret than I am unable to attend the service tomorrow.
We grew up together in Spillville and our families spent much time together. I have fond memories especially of singing and playing musical instruments.
I wish for you peace and comfort in the days ahead. God bless you.
Thomas J. Novak
Lansing, Iowa
Lee Tilkes
03/28/2012
I am sorry for your loss.
I will always have the memory of JoAnn dressing up in the witch costume on Halloween, serving some type of witches brew.
Steve and I spent a lot of time together growing up. Being in the same class, wrestling together, and getting in trouble together are things I remember most. I thought that Steve had it easy, seemed when we did get into trouble that I got the worst of it from my parents and that JoAnn took it easy on Steve. I don't know if that is true but I though it was.
I remember JoAnn always supporting Steve. I know I saw her at the wrestling meets and football games. Always showing support, that is what a good parent does.
Brenda Smith
03/28/2012
JoAnn was a great friend and co-worker. Enjoyed her great personality and warm smile. JoAnn will always be in our hearts and memories.
Thoughts and prayers go out to Dave and family.
God Bless,
Brenda Smith
Sheri DeYoung
03/28/2012
My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Sheri DeYoung
PDI
Denise Finnegan Sinnwell
03/28/2012
Our condolences to all the family members of JoAnn. She was a fun loving person and was always a joy to be around. She made a room smile with her cheerfulness. I worked with JoAnn at Sara Lee for 4 memorable years, she will be missed. May your days be filled with many fond memories.
Kim Novak
03/28/2012
So sorry to hear of JoAnns passing. From what little time I was able to spend with her, she seemed to be a sweet and caring individual. I last was able to exchange words with her in 2009 at a family wedding, and I can't tell you enough how great it was to touch base with her after so many years. She will be truly missed. Take comfort in knowing that she is no longer suffering and is at peace in gods gracious arms.
Kim Novak (JoAnns niece-David Novak's Daughter)
Patty Williams
03/28/2012
JoAnn and Family,
My heart is filled with sadness to loose a wonderful woman. She was an inspiration to all. She always had a smile to help brighten your day. You will be missed greatly, but never forgotten. I know you are not suffering any more and for that I am thankful. I Love You JoAnn and you will always have a special place in my heart.
XOXO Patty
Rick Mace
03/28/2012
I want to send my condolences to all of your family. I work for Hy-Vee for almost 30 years now and have worked with JoAnn for 20 of these. I hope all of you can get past this.
Rick Mace
Bakery Supervisor
Kelly O'Brien
03/28/2012
JoAnn had such a great smile, sense of humor, and attitude. She is a very courageous woman who is gone way before her time. She will be missed by many people especially at Hockenberg Newburgh. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.
Shari Laird
03/28/2012
Joannie, You were a ray of sunshine. I loved you dearly. Your laughter wll be misseds. So glad to have had you for a friend!!
Edna Stiefel
03/28/2012
JoAnn was always upbeat and friendly, and she will be missed by many. Lisa, Steve, Dave and your families all have my greatest sympathy.