JoAnn Joyce Stegenga passed away peacefully  Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2019, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester. She was 83.

She was born April 15, 1935, in Albert Lea, the daughter of Vincent and Laura (Hannigan) Balfe. She attended schools in Albert Lea. She was united in marriage with Albert Stegenga at St. Theodore Catholic Church in 1954. Together they were blessed with four children.

JoAnn worked several part-time jobs over the years while proudly raising her family. She then worked for American Greetings as a merchandiser for over 20 years.

She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, reading, painting and crafts. JoAnn was an excellent cook and baker, always making sure her family had a good meal. When she was younger, she enjoyed camping. JoAnn was a proud Minnesota Vikings fan, and never missed a game — win or lose. She also loved being around children, watching them learn and grow.

JoAnn is survived by her children Dan Stegenga of Canyon Lake, Texas, Ron (Wendy) Stegenga of Abilene, Texas, and Jim (Chris) Stegenga of Rochester; grandchildren Shelly (Scott) Freemyer of Cottage Grove, Cristy Stegenga, Jenell Stegenga and David (Jessica) Stegenga, all of Abilene, Matt Stegenga of Christoval, Texas, and Jenna and Alyson Stegenga of Rochester; and great-grandchildren Erin and Trevor Freemyer and Catalina Stegenga. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Albert; her daughter, Lori Beighley; brothers Richard Balfe and Jerry Balfe; and granddaughter, Crystal Beighley.

JoAnn’s family were the most important to her. She loved her children and grandchildren more than anything in the world. May God bless her and hold her in the palm of his hand.

Memorial services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Theodore Catholic Church in Albert Lea. The Rev. Kurt Farrell will officiate. Interment will be in St. Theodore Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour before services at the church.

Bonnerup Funeral Service is assisting the family.

JoAnn’s family would like to thank the staff at St. John’s Lutheran Community for her kind, compassionate care. Memorials are suggested to St. Theodore’s Catholic Church or St. John’s-The Woodlands on Fountain Lake.