On June 11, 2026, Joan Elizabeth (Anderson) Brueggeman was promoted to an angel after a 13-month battle with stage 4 lung cancer. She fought through it with hope and bravery until the very end.

Joan entered Heaven surrounded by the love of her family and cherished dogs. In that sacred moment, God let those she loved know she was home with Him
through a single, unmistakable rumble of thunder.

Joan leaves behind a family who meant everything to her, including her husband of thirty-two years, Rod Brueggeman; children, Jon Brueggeman and Maddy Koelbl; son-in-law, Kyle Koelbl; grandchild, Emersyn Koelbl and grandpuppy, Oakley Koelbl; siblings, Donna, Bob, Steve, John, and Mark; her beloved dogs, Camilla and Khalessi; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. Her love, guidance, and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her mother, Madelon Anderson, and her father, Robert Anderson.

After graduating from Michigan State University in 1987, Joan devoted her life and career to caring for others. For more than forty years, she served as a nurse in a variety of clinical and leadership roles, touching countless lives through her compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to patient care. In recognition of her extraordinary service, she was honored with the 2023 Michigan State University Alumni Nurse of the Year and the Hero Award by the American Case Management Association in 2026. Joan also served on the Michigan State University Board of Nurses helping to support and advance the nursing profession. Her calling to care for others extended far beyond her professional life, as she lovingly cared for her mother throughout her lifetime with the same selflessness and devotion that defined her character.

Joan was known for her adventurous spirit, deep love for nature, unwavering devotion to family and friends, and her signature smile. In her sixty-one years, she mastered the art of travel, having spent at least one night in all fifty states and exploring numerous countries around the world. She found joy and wonder in God’s creations— especially birds, flowers, mountains, sunshine, and sandy beaches.

Joan had a unique gift for making people feel loved. She understood what mattered to others and made everyone feel seen, valued, and cared for. Whether through a thoughtful gift, a meaningful trinket, or a simple gesture, she expressed her love generously and sincerely.

She also delighted in life’s simple pleasures: a good cup of coffee, a slice of pizza, chocolate, time with family, and staying active through walks, dancing, fishing, swimming, yoga, and spirited euchre games. Joan lived fully, loved deeply, and found beauty in both life’s grand adventures and smallest moments.

There are countless lessons to be learned from Joan. She taught us to smile through life’s hardships, find the good in every situation, cherish family traditions, celebrate the little things, and always show up for the people you love. She reminded us to enjoy the sunshine whenever we can and to live with gratitude and grace. Though her earthly presence may be gone, Joan’s spirit remains. The love she shared, the lessons she taught, and the kindness she showed will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. We will miss her smile deeply and the joy she brought to so many.

A Celebration of Life honoring Joan will be held at Fox Hollow Golf Course on July 16 from 4:00–8:00 p.m. Appetizers and beverages will be provided while supplies last. Please feel free to join at any part of the evening. In keeping with Joan’s wishes, guests are encouraged to wear bright colors, bring a warm smile, and share their favorite stories and memories. There will be flowers, music, good food, and the company of family and friends—just as Joan would have wanted. We look forward to gathering together to celebrate Joan’s life, her spirit, and the many memories she left behind.

Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family. Condolences may be made by visiting CouleeCremation.com.