Joanne L. Obergfell was born on April 29, 1937, to C.E. (Jim) and Merle (Wire) Lovelace, in Columbus, MT. She was the middle of three daughters, a role she carried with a quiet strength and sense of humor throughout her life.

Joanne married Jake Obergfell on August 15, 1959, at the Pella Luthern Church in Sidney, Montana.

Joanne spent a few years in Chicago, Illinois, before settling into the life she loved most – being a wife, mother, and the heart of her family. In 1962, she and her husband Jake moved with their first two children to Colorado Springs, Colorado. In 1978, they returned to Sidney, Montana, where they raised their family and built a life full of memories.

As her children grew older, Joanne worked in a variety of roles in the community. She spent time at Weber Furniture Store, and Current Cards and Stationery in Colorado Springs, the Credit Bureau in Sidney, the Super Pumper and a couple attorneys. Before marrying Jake, she worked as a telephone operator in Sidney.

Joanne found joy in the simple things. She enjoyed quilting – though she would be the first to joke that she might have collected more fabric and books than finished quilts - and she loved embroidery, specifically cross stitch. She cherished time spent with her family and friends, whether it was around the table, out camping, or enjoying peaceful days on the pontoon. Those moments meant everything to her.

Joanne passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, May 3, 2026, at Sheridan Memorial Nursing Home in Plentywood, Montana.
She is lovingly remembered by her children: Janelle Wrigley of Plentywood, MT; James (Kelly) Obergfell of Plentywood, MT; Jay (Shelly) Obergfell of Fairview, MT; and Jon (Charlotte) Obergfell of Sidney, MT; She was a proud grandmother to Misty (Eric) Martinez, Miles McKenna, Brody Wrigley, Brianna Wrigley, Nyle (Cissy) Obergfell, Cassidy Obergfell, Wyatt Obergfell, Victoria Obergfell, Devon Obergfell, Austin (Darbie) Obergfell; Kordell Obergfell, Zak (Stephanie) Savelkoul and Seth Obergfell, and was blessed with 10 great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

Joanne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jake; her parents; her sisters Beverly (Bobby) Lagasse and Diane Frasure, and son-in-law Robert (Bob) Wrigley.

Joanne will be remembered for her gentle nature, her steady presence, and the love she gave so freely to her family. She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.