Joan E. Sounde, 90, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully with her daughter, Marisa, by her side in the early morning hours of Sunday, February 8, 2026. She is now reunited with her beloved husband of 56 years, Ralph. Born on September 14, 1935, Joan grew up in Arlington Heights, Illinois, a place she was always proud to call home. She loved sharing her stories of her early years and carried those memories with her throughout her life. She worked as an office manager and bookkeeper until later in life, when she chose marriage, motherhood, and community groups to fill her days.

Joan found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved shopping and never missed a great sale, always taking pride in finding the best bargain. She enjoyed playing UNO, especially with her grandchildren, and faithfully watched her favorite shows — The Price Is Right, Wheel of Fortune, and Jeopardy. Music filled her heart, particularly the timeless music of Frank Sinatra and Elvis, whose voices brought her comfort and nostalgia. She was known to never turn down a treat, especially those in the form of ice cream, chocolate chip cookies, and her favorite, Culver’s.

Joan adored the beach and the sunshine, which never failed to put a smile on her face. Her visits to Florida were always cherished ones, especially those by the water.

Joan met her beloved husband, Ralph, on a blind date; a simple introduction that grew into decades of love and adventures. They were married on July 19, 1958, beginning 56 years of devotion and shared memories. On July 19, 2014, they renewed their vows alongside their daughter Tammy for her wedding in California — a beautiful day celebrating enduring love and new beginnings.

Her married years were full and adventurous as they shared a love of travel, seeing the countryside in their motorhome, and creating memories along the open road. Trips to casinos, card games with friends, and spending time with their children and grandchildren were things they loved most. Their life together was rooted in companionship, laughter, and family.

Though dementia slowly took pieces of her memory, it never diminished her smile, sense of humor, sassiness, or the love that she had.

Joan is survived by her children Scott (Theresa) Sounde, Tim (Marian) Sounde, Tammy Sounde (Boris Brown), and Marisa Sounde; her grandchildren, Karleigh, Alyssa, Emma, Mia, Jake, Jessica, Fatih, Lauren, and Katie; her great-grandkids, Salvador, Jameson, and Wesley; and her sister-in-law, Alicemae Christian and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Ralph; her brother, James Meyer; her parents, Esther Breyer and Raymond Meyer; and many beloved aunts and uncles.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Golden Years of Lake Geneva for providing Joan with a safe and caring home for two years, and to Badger Hospice for their compassionate support, kindness, and presence during her final moments.

A celebration of Joan’s life will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Derrick Funeral Home in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, with a memorial service to follow at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joan’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association- Walworth County or Cycling Without Age - Walworth County.

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Derrick Funeral Home is honored to be assisting Joan's family.