JoAnn Salin, 85, of Middleton, WI, passed away April 15, 2026, at Waunakee Valley Housing Community.

Born January 25, 1941, in Madison, WI, she was the daughter of Stanleigh and Eleanor (Frank) Friedman, who preceded her in death. She grew up on Drake Street, just a block from Vilas Park, where her father instilled in her a guiding belief she carried throughout her life: “Things work out for the best.”

A graduate of Madison West High School, JoAnn worked in real estate, earned a master’s degree in rehabilitation psychology, and became an early enthusiast of computers. She worked at the UW–Madison computing center for many years and later dedicated a decade to helping seniors learn computer skills at the Middleton Senior Center.

A gifted communicator and advocate, JoAnn wrote the column “Dealing with Disabilities” for the Middleton Times-Tribune in the 1990s and later shared her voice on WTDY radio. Through her writing and broadcasting, she offered advice, encouragement, and understanding to many, often without calling attention to her own lifelong experience with multiple sclerosis.

Never one to stop creating, JoAnn was also writing a screenplay and working with a Hollywood agent, holding onto the hope that one day she might win an Oscar.

JoAnn will be remembered for her optimism, independence, and intelligence, as well as her stubbornly optimistic spirit. She inspired others through her resilience, curiosity, and unwavering belief that, indeed, things work out for the best.

She is survived by her daughter, Cathy Salin Lanier (James Lanier); her son, Richard Salin (Jennifer Salin); her grandchildren, Jacob Lanier, Jared Lanier, and Lillian Salin; and her sister, Marcia Friedman.

A graveside funeral service will be held Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Forest Hill Cemetery, 1 Speedway Road, at 10:00 AM. (Please meet at the main gate)

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services

3610 Speedway Road Madison

608-238-3434