Joann Lucille Towner

Obituary:

Joann Lucille Towner, a beloved member of the West Branch community, passed away on July 27, 2024 surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer. Joann born on March 28, 1940, in West Branch, MI, to James and Genevieve (Bohnard) McKenna and it was here that she grew up and touched the lives of many with her kindness and love.

Joann graduated from St. Joseph Catholic School.  Her proudest accomplishment was marrying the love of her life, Wilson Towner, on August 1, 1959. Together they built a life full of love and happiness.

In her free time, Joann enjoyed round and square dancing, camping with friends, soaking up the sun, and spending time with all kinds of animals. Her vibrant spirit and warm personality endeared her to all who were fortunate enough to know her.  She was a member of the Wildwood Whirlers, Yellow Rockers, and North Wood Stompers.

In addition to her husband Wilson "Bill" Towner of 65 years, Joann is survived by her children Susan (Dana) Thompson, Janis (Tim) Sperry, Steve (Teresa) Towner; grandchildren Corey (Jennifer) Towner, Chad Atherton, Amanda (Kyle) Piglowski, Brett Towner, Sheldon Towner, Adrien Towner; great-grandchildren Corbin Towner, Gavin Towner, Brodin Towner, Dayton Noffsinger, Carter Piglowski, Benjamin Piglowski; brother Dennis McKenna; sister-in-law Nancy Culbertson; her beloved dog Molly; as well as many nieces and nephews who adored her.

Joann is preceded in death by her parents and grandsons Nicholas Sperry, Kameron Towner, and brothers Jerry and Richard McKenna.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 30th from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Homes in West Branch. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday, July 31st at 2:00 PM at the same location. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in West Branch. 

Contributions in memory of Joann may be made to Care Team Hospice or the American Cancer Society.

Joann Lucille Towner will be remembered not only for the love she shared but also for the joy she brought into the lives of those around her. May she rest in peace knowing that her legacy of kindness and warmth will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.