Joanne D. Maerz

Joanne D. Maerz, 79, of Deerfield, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on March 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Joanne was born on January 5, 1947, in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, to James and Pearl Wagner. She grew up in Deerfield and graduated from Deerfield High School. Joanne spent many years working at American Family Insurance before retiring.

Family was the center of Joanne’s life. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and treasured every moment with them. Joanne had a creative spirit and enjoyed crafting and making blankets, many of which became cherished gifts for those she loved. She was always ready to lend a helping hand and was known for her kindness, generosity, and willingness to support friends and family whenever they needed her.

On April 14, 1978, Joanne married Ron Maerz, and together they built a life centered around family and community.

Joanne is lovingly remembered by her children: Rick; Ronda (Terry); Rachelle (Mike); Colleen (Brenda); Amy (Andy); and Dusty. She was a proud grandmother to Zach, Jacob, Josh, Abby, Jenny, Max, Robby, Alex, Michael, Paige, and Weiland, and a beloved great-grandmother to many. She is also survived by many sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews.

Joanne will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her warmth, kindness, and love for family will live on in the many lives she touched. She often said, “You never know when you are making a memory,” and those who shared their lives with her will forever treasure the many memories she helped create.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 Noon on Saturday March 14, 2026 at ST. PAUL LIBERTY LUTHERAN CHURCH, 3494 Oak Park Rd. Deerfield with Rev. Holly Slater presiding. Burial will be at St. Paul Liberty Lutheran Cemetery. There will be a luncheon at the St. Paul Liberty Lutheran Education Center after burial service for family and friends to share memories and celebrate Joanne’s life. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until the service at the church on Saturday.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

201 Bue Street, P.O. Box 376, Deerfield

(608) 764-5369

Please share your memories at www.cressfuneralservice.com