Joanne Wagstrom Watson

life story

Vibrant, brave, free spirit

"Grieve not for me, remember the best times, the laughter, the song, the good life I Ioved when I was strong.” – Unknown

About Joanne

Joanne Watson (Wagstrom) of Minneapolis, MN, and Naples, FL, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 29, 2025, after an extended time bravely contending with Parkinson’s and Lewy body dementia.

Born to Alice and Robert Wagstrom, Joanne, the youngest of 6 siblings, grew up in Northeast Minneapolis and was a graduate of Edison High School. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Toledo and went on to live a life full of adventure. Joanne was a passionate educator and dedicated many years as an art teacher and girls' golf coach at The Blake Schools in Minneapolis.

A true free spirit, Joanne lived in various parts of the U.S. and traveled extensively around the world. She especially cherished time spent in Boca Paila, Mexico, and Rainy Lake, Canada. In her later years, Joanne made her home in Naples, FL, returning to Minnesota in summers, where she lived with her sister Carol.

Joanne found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved playing golf with friends, walking the beaches of Naples, and being actively involved with her condo community. She enjoyed nurturing her garden and she appreciated art and music of all kinds. Joanne loved connections with people, she was always ready to share a glass of wine, meet up for happy hour, and open her home to welcome friends and family.

Joanne was preceded in death by her parents, sister Marilyn Wagstrom, and brother Gerald (Jerry) Wagstrom. She is deeply missed by her siblings Robert Wagstrom, Barbara Fitzmaurice, and Carol Anderson; companion Brad Womack; many nieces and nephews and families; stepdaughters Alita and Maria Watson and families; and her dear friends. She will be remembered as a beautiful, vibrant, creative, and big-hearted sister, teacher, coach, aunt, and friend.

memorial service

Celebration of Life for Joanne Watson

June 13, 2025

Jax Cafe 1928 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418, USA