Joan Elaine (Grunenwald) Sander, age 67, of Platteville, WI, peacefully died at home on December 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family, who were her greatest joy. Joan fought her illness with incredible strength and grace, never losing her gentle spirit or her concern for others.

Born on December 21, 1957, in Dodgeville, WI, to Harold and Marian (Jenks) Grunenwald, Joan grew up with strong family values and a love for nature that stayed with her throughout her life. She graduated from Iowa Grant High School in 1976 and soon after married the love of her life, Lelan “Lee” Sander, on March 25, 1978. Together, they built a beautiful life in the home they created in rural Platteville, raising their family and cultivating a yard that became a haven for flowers, pollinators, birds, and wildlife. Joan took immense pride in her home and gardens, creating spaces filled with beauty and peace.

For 27 years, Joan dedicated her career to the Platteville School District, ensuring classrooms and buildings were clean and welcoming—a reflection of her belief that every child and teacher deserved a safe and nurturing environment to learn and grow.

Joan's happiest moments were when her family was gathered at home or when she was tending to her flower beds. She loved spending time with friends and extended family—playing games, laughing, exploring Black Hawk Lake, visiting small-town bars, hiking state and national parks, vacationing at lake homes, cheering for the Packers and Badgers, and watching her grandchildren excel in their academics and activities. Her gentle spirit, zest for life, and selfless nature made her the best wife, mom, sister, and friend. She was always thinking of others and will be remembered for her kindness, laughter, and legendary apple pies, cookies, and desserts.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Marian, her father and mother-in-law, Dale and Betty Sander, brother-in-law Aron Sander, and her beloved grand dogs Cosmo and Penelope. She is survived by her devoted husband, Lee; children, Amy (Aaron Stelpflug), Jill (Bill McFalls), Craig (Kendall McDermott); grandchildren, Autumn & Aurora Stelpflug, Jordan, Tyler & Addison McFalls, and Hazel & Charlotte Sander; brother Steve Grunenwald; sister Sandy Grunenwald; and sister and brother in laws; Connie (Robert Striffolino), Kent (Mary Ann Sander), Steve (Deb Sander), Sherry (Dusty Pothour), LeAnn (Rich Hoffmann), Avonne (Chuck Bonin), Lori (Steve Gehrke); many cherished in-laws, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

A celebration of Joan's life will be held on December 20, 2025, at Melby Funeral Home in Platteville, WI, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a time of sharing and a reception. Joan wanted everyone to remember the good times and keep talking to her—because she will always be listening.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Upland Hills Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate care and support.

Joan Sander

December 21, 1957 - December 02, 2025

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