Joan Ann Brunner

Joan Ann Brunner, age 90, longtime resident of Skokie, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 20, 2020, at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved mother of Anne Marie (Rich), Bunny (Tom), Jack (Herb), and Ted (Marie) and the adored Nana of Nicky (Matt) and Michelle (Noe).

Joan was born on June 25, 1930, in Philadelphia, PA, the youngest of Joseph and Ann Martinelli’s seven children. She was a graduate of West Philadelphia Catholic Girls High School and Immaculata College in Immaculata, PA. For several years after graduation, Joan taught second grade at St. Donato’s School and was a beloved teacher to many.

After relocating to Chicago in 1966, Joan dedicated herself to family and community. Joan served as a Scout leader, liturgy committee member, Northwestern Hospital auxiliary supporter, member of the Skokie Garden Club, and a longstanding volunteer at the Women’s Center of Greater Chicagoland. Additionally, Joan was renowned for her hospitality, welcoming all to her dining room table. Joan’s famous meatballs were a staple of many family gatherings, and her recipe will be passed down for generations.

Joan was devoted to her Catholic faith and found a home at St. Peter Catholic Church, in Skokie, for over 50 years. She had a special devotion to Our Lady of Fatima and was active in the Blue Army for many years. She lived her faith with humility and kindness.

Visitation, Thursday, July 23, 2020, from 4 to 8 p.m., at HABEN Funeral Home & Crematory, 8057 Niles Center Rd., Skokie. [ PLEASE NOTE:  In compliance with public health and safety directives due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, face masks and social distancing will be required. A maximum of 50 people will be allowed in the funeral home at any given time. ] Funeral Mass, Friday, July 24, at 10:30 a.m., at St. Peter Catholic Church, 8100 Niles Center Rd., Skokie. Interment, St. Peter Catholic Cemetery, Skokie.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Women’s Centers of Greater Chicagoland (www.gotwc.org), 5116 N. Cicero Ave., Chicago, IL, 60630.

Funeral info:  847.673.6111.