Joan Leisten

Joan Florence Leisten, 92, departed this life to her eternal home in heaven on November 19, 2024. Joan was born July 18, 1932 in Milwaukee, WI, to Edward and Hilda Pankonin. She graduated from Milwaukee Lutheran High School in 1950. In 1953 she married Ralph Leisten. Their marriage was blessed with five children and extended over 70 years. The family moved to Fond du Lac, WI, in 1963. She was employed at Standard Paper before her marriage to Ralph, and then began raising their five children. She later worked as the secretary at Winnebago Lutheran Academy for 26 years, serving with principals; TW Zuberbier, John Shibblehut and Randy Westphal. She supported her husband's service in the military, and upon his retirement joined the Reserve Officers Association of Ladies, holding several offices, including president. Joan was an active member at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, singing in the choir and assisting in ministries at St. Peter's Lutheran School. She is survived by her spouse Ralph; children, Colleen Oldfield, Shari (David) Kimpel, Gregg (Carol) Leisten, Kathy Placek, and John (Camille) Leisten; thirteen grandchildren; twenty one great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Eddie and Howie Pankonin; sister Violet Ferge; and three sons-in-law. A Christian funeral service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Winnebago Lutheran Academy or St. Peter's Lutheran Church. https:// wlavikings.org/