Joanne Schultz

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joanne Lynn Schultz on August 22, 2023, in Detroit, Michigan. Joanne was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and neighbor, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. She was 80 years old. Born on September 23, 1942, in Muskegon, Michigan, Joanne was the daughter of the late Raymond and Helen (Peck) Farmer. She grew up alongside her siblings Larry Farmer, and the late Loretta Vanderzel and Robert Farmer. Joanne’s fondest childhood memories were her summers at the family’s lake cottage and her friends from Jolman elementary, who she has kept in touch with ever since. Joanne married Phillip C. Schultz in 1963 and they shared a remarkable 60 years of marriage together. Together, Joanne and Phillip raised two children, Karen and Matthew. Joanne’s family expanded further with the births of her four grandchildren, Kyle and Spencer Hansen (children of Karen and Mark Hansen) and Abigayle and Ethan Schultz (children of Matthew and Emily Schultz). Joanne was known as “Nina” or “Nana” by her grandchildren, and some of her happiest times were spent playing with them. Whenever anyone spent time with Joanne, they heard at least one grandchild story. Joanne earned degrees from Michigan State, Oakland University, and Central Michigan University which led to her career as a middle school teacher in Bloomfield Hills. She had a way to relate to children that made her an outstanding teacher. She thought every student was smart in their own way, and she was committed that every student would reach their potential. Joanne also never stopped learning herself – she read books on quantum physics and the construction of the Panama Canal in her late 70’s. Reading of all types was one of Joanne’s passions, but she had a special spot in her heart for fantasy literature. She would read The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter series annually. She even read the Silmarillion twice. Joanne’s home was always festive with decorations for every season and holiday. She would match that festive spirit with her own seasonal shirts and socks as well. Her house changed month to month as winter decorations gave way to Valentines, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter and so on through the rest of year. Her wide variety of Christmas Cookies was legendary. Joanne also loved travelling. When her children were younger, the family would set out on month long expeditions to multiple National Parks. She later developed a love of cruising, and took several cruises with Phillip to Alaska, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. Joanne and Phillip fell in love with the American West through their travels and were winter residents of the Solera community in Arizona for over 20 years. Despite it being a very large community, Joanne knew nearly everyone. She was a regular attendee of coffee hour and coordinated monthly volunteering efforts with her fellow residents. Joanne spent her final months in the comfort of her Commerce home surrounded by loved ones. She would enjoy the views of her backyard pond and its wildlife in between outings to The Breakfast Club and Karen’s house. Joanne will forever be remembered for her sense of humor, generosity, and endless kindness. Her legacy lives on through her family, friends, neighbors, and former students. A Celebration of Life in honor of Joanne will be held on Sunday, August 27, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the O'Brien Sullivan Funeral Home, located at 41555 Grand River Ave in Novi. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation hours from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to Henry Ford Hospice]

Joanne Schultz

September 23, 1942 - August 22, 2023