Joanne Looker

MOUNT PLEASANT- Joanne Looker, 89, of Mount Pleasant died Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Sunrise Terrace in Winfield.

Joanne was born December 30, 1935, in Fairfield, the daughter of Joe D. and Katherine M. (Burke) Strang. She graduated from Mount Pleasant High School in 1954, and graduated Nurses Training in 1957. On June 14, 1958, Joanne was united in marriage to Richard C. “Dick” Looker at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church. Joanne worked as a nurse at Henry County Memorial Hospital and Mount Pleasant Mental Health Institute. She also helped her husband Dick at Benda Looker Furniture. After her career as a nurse, Joanne helped care for children at Owls Nest Childcare Center.

Joanne kept busy as a member of the Wednesday Club, and a few different Bridge groups. She loved watching the birds at her feeders, a pastime that brought her much joy. Joanne also enjoyed tending to her vegetable and flower gardens, sewing and watching any sporting event she came across on TV.

Joanne’s faith was the foundation of everything she did. She was a lifelong devoted member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church. Her involvement included Altar and Rosary, Prayer Shawl Project, and RCIA. Joanne often spent her mornings in quiet reflection, reciting the rosary and reading her devotions.

But above all, family was the heart of Joanne’s life. For many years, she lovingly cared for her husband, Dick, as well as others who needed a helping hand. Family gatherings around the dining room table were one of her greatest joys, though she also cherished the simpler moments, like a hotdog roast with her loved ones.

Joanne is survived by five children, Theresa Rose of Mount Pleasant, Beth (Wayne) Swafford of Fairfield, Marcus (Marilyn) Looker, of Mequon, WI, Michael (Angie) Looker of Forest City and Ted (Gretchen) Looker of Lockridge; 21 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; sister Chris Ryan of Cedar Rapids; sister-in-law Marcia Strang of Oswego, NY; brother-in-law Bob Potter of Walcott; and six nieces and nephews.

Joanne was preceded in death by her parents, husband Dick, brother Frank Strang, brother-in-law Patrick Ryan, sister-in-law Jean Potter and son-in-law Mark Rose.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Mount Pleasant. Rev. Ross Epping will celebrate the Mass. Interment will follow in the St. Alphonsus Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday, March 24, from 12:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Olson-Powell Chapel & Crematory. A Rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m. The family will be present to greet friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be directed to the St. Alphonsus Cemetery. The Olson-Powell Chapel & Crematory is caring for Joanne and her family. www.powellfuneralhomes.com