Joanne C. Nissen

Joanne Nissen, 78, of Taylor, Michigan, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family on August 9, 2024. Born on May 15, 1946, in Detroit, she was the loving daughter of the late Milford and Esther Olson. Her life was driven by an unwavering dedication to her family and a profound faith that guided her every step.

Joanne married the love of her life Paul Nissen on August 26, 1967. Together they built a home full of laughter and love. They had four children: Scott, Susan, Heather, and David. She is survived by her children Heather (Frank) and David (Shannon) and her six cherished grandchildren: Kaily, Anna, Kathleen, Jenna, Isabelle, and Paul. She was a loving mother and grandmother whose words and wisdom had the power to soothe and inspire, offering comfort in times of sorrow and encouragement in moments of doubt. Joanne was preceded in death by her husband Paul and her children Scott and Susan and her sister Joyce. She is also survived by her sister Karen and her nieces Kristin and Karin.

Joanne graduated from Wayne State University with a degree in education. She began her career as an elementary teacher in the Detroit Public Schools. Later Joanne combined her passion for teaching with her strong Christian faith by serving as the Christian Education Director at Hope Lutheran church and later at Holy Trinity Lutheran church. Her faith was central to her life, and she made many wonderful friends through her church community, which had brought her immense joy and support.

Joanne’s favorite place to be was at her home with her family and her friends. A lifelong resident of Taylor, Joanne cherished her home and dearly loved her neighbors. She took great pride in her garden and loved working outside doing her yardwork with her beloved dog, Scamp, by her side. If you did not find her outside, you could often find her inside watching her favorite TV shows (Mash, Little House on the Prairie, The Waltons and Highway to Heaven). Her second favorite place was her grandparent’s farm in Aura, MI. Here she created many treasured memories as a child and later as an adult with her kids and grandkids.

Though she is no longer with us, her spirit remains a guiding light, comforting us in our grief and reminding us of the power of a life lived with faith, love and hope.