Joan F. Busteed

With grateful hearts for a life well lived and deep sorrow at her passing, we share that Joan F. Busteed died peacefully on June 13, 2026, at the age of 90, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 31, 1935, in Menasha, Wisconsin, Joan was the beloved daughter of Edward and Gertrude Jape. Joan’s life was a testament to love, humility, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. She was a devoted wife to the late Robert (Bob) L. Busteed, whom she married on August 27, 1960, after a whirlwind romance that began at the Jack and Jill Dude Ranch in Rothbury, Michigan. Shortly after they married they moved to Texas. In 1964, they relocated to Bradley, Illinois where they spent their remaining years. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and joy. A graduate of Menasha High School in 1953, Joan was an exemplary homemaker, taking immense pride in nurturing her family. Her legacy continues through her daughter, Jamie Cagle and partner Keith Harms of Bradley, Illinois, her son Robert (Rob) E. Busteed and his wife Sharon of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and her cherished grandchildren, Jacob, Alysa, Emma, and Lawrence. Joan is also survived by her sister, Mary Siegel of Menasha, WI, and a host of nieces and nephews who will carry forward her spirit of kindness. For over 60 years, Joan was an active member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bradley, IL, where she shared her faith as a member of the Council of Catholic Women, Eucharistic Minister, Homebound Minister, Hospitality Minister, and Sacristin. Fondly remembered as the "SNOW CONE Lady" at church events, she brought joy and warmth to all those around her. Her commitment to service extended beyond her church, as she volunteered at St. Joseph Catholic School, St. Mary's Hospital, and Meals on Wheels, spreading love and care wherever she went. In addition to her community involvement, Joan was a lifetime member of the Bradley Bourbonnais Senior Citizens Club. Her hobbies included sewing, crafting, cooking, baking, gardening, playing Bingo, and solving puzzles. Joan’s sewing talents were legendary, as she could create anything requested of her, including a matching dress for her granddaughter’s doll, bringing it to life from a mere magazine page. Her sewing and crafting talents rubbed off on her granddaughters as they emulate her creativity. Her love for travel and cruising with family and friends enriched her life with unforgettable memories. Joan’s life was defined by her servant’s heart, her willingness to help those in need, and her tireless work ethic. Even in her late 80s, she insisted on maintaining her lawn and shoveling her sidewalks, a testament to her indomitable spirit. Joan loved the holidays and Christmas was her favorite. Every square inch of her home was decorated and there was always an abundance of gifts for her family, friends, and especially for her four beautiful grandchildren. They will always remember grandma's bottomless bags of love. A Funeral Mass for Joan will take place on July 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church, located at 211 N Center Ave, Bradley, Illinois. Her family invites all who knew her to join in honoring her remarkable life. A graveside service for Joan and Bob Busteed will take place on July 25, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Cemetery, 566 Olde Midway Rd. Menasha, Wisconsin. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Joan's memory to the Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation, an organization close to her heart. As we reflect on Joan's life, we are reminded of a quote by Mother Teresa: "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Joan lived these words daily, leaving a legacy of love and kindness that will endure in the hearts of all who knew her.