Joanne Schultz, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026, at Hillcrest Senior Living in Red Lake Falls, Minnesota. Born on June 5, 1947, in Crookston, Minnesota, Joanne lived a life marked by warmth, dedication, and an unwavering love for her family and friends.

A graduate of Mentor High School in 1965, Joanne’s professional journey was marked by versatility and compassion. Her career encompassed numerous roles, including serving as a Librarian at the Red Lake Falls Library, a Red Lake County Dispatcher, a Nursing Assistant at Oakland Park Nursing Home and Johnson's Riverside in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, an Attendant at the Seven Clans Casino, and an Associate in the Walmart Deli. Each position reflected her commitment to service and to the people around her.

Joanne’s greatest pride and joy were her family. She was devoted to her children, Wayne Schultz Jr. and Spencer Schultz, and deeply treasured her role as a grandparent and great-grandparent. Her grandchildren—Melissa and Nicole, daughters of Wayne Jr., and Mica, Avery, and Finley, daughters of Spencer—were a central part of her life. Joanne’s great-grandchildren—Hunter and Kaosidy, children of Melissa; Khristopher, Tylah, Olivia, and Jameson, children of Nicole—also held a special place in her heart. Joanne’s presence was steadfast and loving; she attended every school function, birthday party, and milestone celebration, rain or shine, always with a smile and a warm wave. To her sons, regardless of their age, she remained "mom," offering small gifts and gestures that brightened their days. Her marriage to her late husband, Wayne Sr., was a partnership filled with care and devotion. Joanne ensured he was always well cared for, and even after his passing, she kept his memory close, often sharing daily stories and small treasures that reminded her of him.

Joanne was known for her vibrant spirit and magnetic personality. A true social butterfly, she could spark engaging conversations with anyone she met. Her laughter was contagious, her happiness genuine, and her presence brightened any room. Her hobbies reflected her energetic outlook on life—she enjoyed crossword puzzles, word search puzzles, thrift shopping, clipping coupons, and exploring yard sales, finding joy in every day.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Wayne Sr.; her parents; her brother; her sisters; and her grandparents. She is survived by her children, Wayne Schultz Jr. (Alicia) of Red Lake Falls, MN, and Spencer Schultz (Jami) of Thief River Falls, MN; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who carry forward her loving legacy.

A visitation will be held on April 15, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 170 Pleth Avenue, Plummer, MN 56748. This will be followed by a Celebration of Life service on the same day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the same location. Family, friends, and all who knew Joanne are invited to gather to honor her memory, share stories, and celebrate a life well lived.

Joanne Schultz will be remembered as a woman whose happiness, kindness, and dedication enriched the lives of all who had the privilege to know her. Her legacy endures most profoundly in the loving family she so proudly nurtured and cared for throughout her lifetime.