Joan Ruth Strauss, 79, Polo, died peacefully with her family by her side on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2013 at the University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison.
She was born on Nov. 25,1934 in Dixon, to Harold and Ruth McCleary.
Joan graduated from Polo Community High School and attended Shimer College, Mt. Carroll.
She married Edwin Strauss on Oct. 2, 1954 at her parent's family farm in Polo.
Joan knew that her true calling was to follow in her father's footsteps and ultimately began the process with Edwin to take over the family farm.
Joan loved the family farm and took pride in working the land and raising livestock.
In addition to farming, she also was a licensed realtor, broker, and appraiser.
She worked hard at everything she did and always had an attention to detail.
Joan also enjoyed playing bridge with her close friends and Euchre with her family.
She also took pleasure in traveling, gardening, and any activity with her grandchildren. She will be missed dearly.
Survivors include her husband Edwin Strauss, Polo; two children, Susan (Jerry) Love, Gilbert, Ariz.; Steve (Janet Henning) Strauss, Polo; six grandchildren, Kailey, Mason, Jacob, Curtiss, Lauren, and Kate; one brother Elliot McCleary.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Robert; sister, Jean.
Funeral services will be on Monday, Dec. 30 at 10 a.m. at the Polo Family Funeral Home.
Burial will take place immediately following the service at Fairmount Cemetery.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, Dec. 29 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Polo Family Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers a memorial will be established in her name.