Joan Riordan was a mother and wife who loved to cook and be near nature. To the delight of others, she used her talents to create a celestial garden that brought a little bit of Heaven to Earth. Joan Riordan (Redman), 77, of Hales Corners, WI, entered Eternal Life on May 2, 2023.

Joan is survived by her husband of 47 years, Robert; her children Emily (Ryan) Buntrock and Eric Riordan; her sisters Sandra Otto, Judy Muszynski and Mary Redman; and her brother Michael (Denise) Redman. Preceded in death by her parents John and Elizabeth (Tomaszewski) Redman.

Joan escaped death from cancer so many times she made Houdini look like an amateur. Famous for caring for others, even if she was in discomfort herself. Cooked delicacies for her husband and his staff during all-nighters. Devised amazing creative play for her young children. Serial thank-you note writer who "made the day" for many who helped her at stores, hospitals, wherever. Gardened with a mission – sharing thousands of flowers with friends, bees and butterflies.

Fulfilled her childhood dreams of becoming a travel agent and touring many countries. Crossed the Atlantic on the SS France. Flew on the inaugural flight of Royal Air Maroc. Made sure her children saw Yellowstone, Italy and China. Always up for a gentle prank; gave many a good laugh at her creative crafts that had a little twist, specializing in funny hats. Served as the greatest audience for her husband's obscure sense of humor.

Fought cancer with the help of Froedtert's Courage Clinic, ProMedica Hospice, and many caregivers listed at the end. Bolstered by strength from her neighbors, her rosary, her angels and her courage. Member of St. Mary Catholic Faith Community, Hales Corners. Graduate of St. Mary's Academy, Milwaukee. Memorial contributions welcome to MCW Women's Health Research Program or The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. Video Tribute online at https://youtu.be/q4oxrRorAY0 .

Visitation May 23rd from 10:00 am to 11:45 am at St. Mary Catholic Faith Community, 9520 W. Forest Home Ave., Hales Corners, Wisconsin, with Mass at 12 Noon. Luncheon to follow. Private interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Thank you for compassionate care from home health professionals Carol, Christian, Fred, Gina, Heather, Lois, Phua, Rakel, Rosalind, Susan, Tiesha and Watta.