Joanna Kay Rettke, age 74, passed away peacefully in her home in Phoenix, AZ, on July 10, 2025.

Joanna was born on October 9, 1950, in St. James, MN, to Wilma (Krueger) and Erwin Rettke. She grew up on the family farm in Odin, MN where they settled in 1958, the second oldest of the family’s eight children. In 1968 Joanna graduated from Butterfield-Odin High School.

She married Loren Pankratz, and they had two boys, Shelby and Jeremy. After their marriage ended, she continued her education and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Mankato State University in 1980 — a testament to her determination and independence.

In 1985, Joanna moved to Los Angeles, where she embraced the sunshine, the beach, and especially her love of softball. Her competitive spirit and athleticism made her a standout first baseman, and she thrived in the energy of the city.

She later married Ron Freundl in 1992. Though their marriage ended, their bond endured, and they remained close until Ron’s passing in 2023. Together, they shared a love of fishing and spent countless days on the water, often bringing family along for the adventure.

In 2004, Joanna relocated to Arizona to be near her best friend, Pat. She found happiness in the desert heat and enjoyed her swimming pool at the Phoenix home she purchased in 2010. Ever industrious, she ran an online clothing business that kept her engaged and connected.

Joanna treasured time with her family. She loved visiting Jeremy’s family near Seattle — attending Sounders soccer games and playing with her grandson, Jamie. She loved her visits from Shelby and cheering him on in his marathons and Grand Canyon runs, and she deeply valued her visits with her Michigan grandkids, Trey and Shaye.

Joanna is survived by her two sons, Shelby Pankratz, and Jeremy Pankratz (Lee Tostevin); her grandkids Trey Pankratz, Shaye (Jon) Wilson, and Jamie Pankratz; and her great-grandson, Arthur. Also, her siblings David (Sandee) Rettke, Odin, MN; Jean Rettke, Winona, MN; Douglas (Kate) Rettke, Hutchinson, MN; Julie Rettke, Crystal, MN; Darrell (Chris) Rettke, Butterfield, MN; Jodie (Tom) Bagniewski, Cochrane, WI; Jennifer (Kurt) Kolander, Madison, WI; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Joanna will be deeply missed but we find comfort in our memories and the love she felt for her family.

A Celebration of Life to honor Joanna will be held on Saturday, September 13th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Floyd Roberts Jr. Pavilion, Land of Memories Park, 100 Amos Owen Lane, Mankato, MN 56001.