JoAnn Emma Gunnarson

JoAnn E. Gunnarson, age 87, of Marathon, Iowa died August 23, 2020 at her home in Marathon.

Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, May 29, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at the Poland Township Cemetery in Marathon. The Sliefert Funeral Home in Albert City is in charge of the arrangements.

JoAnn Emma Gunnarson, the daughter of Harold and Goldie (Sonksen) Christiansen, was born October 20, 1932 in Danbury, Iowa.

Growing up, JoAnn attended grade school and high school. She graduated from Garfield High School in 1951.

On September 26, 1954, JoAnn was united in marriage to Verner “Gus” Gunnarson in Marathon.  Together they were blessed with five children: David, Donna, Becky, Kris and Terry. 

JoAnn was active in her church community and was a member of Grace Lutheran Church.

In her free time, JoAnn enjoyed playing cards, watching movies, gardening, and canning. Above all, she loved spending time with her grandchildren and attending their activities.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children: Donna (Dan) Farrell of Mulberry, Florida; Becky (Dale Krizan) Gunnarson of Holcombe, Wisconsin; Kris (Bruce) Wittman of Marana, Arizona; Terry (Tracey) Gunnarson of Marathon, Iowa; grandchildren: Jason (fiancé, Kelly Vincent) Farrell, Serenity (Clinton) Carlisle, Erika (Robert Kollar) Bryant, Paige Wittman, Alicia (Mike) Bonham, Josh Gunnarson, Ciri Gunnarson, Jordan Gunnarson, Theresa McRae, Kristie Nelson; fifteen great-grandchildren; brother, Harold David Christiansen of Fort Dodge, Iowa; sister-in-law, June Christiansen; extended family and friends. 

JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband, Verner “Gus”; son, David Gunnarson; parents, Harold and Goldie Christiansen; brothers, Elwood Christiansen and Marius Christiansen; and nephew, Jeff Chrstiansen.

JoAnn will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

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