Helen Joan Evans

Helen Joan Evans (Gieser), age 92 of Appleton, WI passed away on May 31, 2025. Helen, or as she was better known, Joan, was born to John and Helen (Deister) Gieser on January 19, 1933 in Toledo, OH. After graduating high school, she earned a Bachelor’s degree from Beloit College and later a Master’s degree in Christian Education from the University of Chicago. With her former husband, Joan had one son whom she raised as single mother.

Joan was an independent and intelligent person. She faced every challenge that came her way with strength, thoughtfulness, and a great deal of patience. Joan, while raised in Hales Corners, WI traveled around the country and Europe for education, job opportunities, family, and later in life vacations. She had substantial knowledge of theology due to her family background and further education, and enjoyed classical music, learning to play a pipe organ, family time in the cabin “up north”, and travelling to Europe. Her primary work for more than 25 years was teaching the German language to high schoolers in Neenah.

Joan is preceded in death by her parents, John and Helen Gieser; her older sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and Russ Mueller; and her ex-husband, David Evans. She is survived by her only child, John H. Evans; and three nieces with whom she was particularly close: Kris Sexton, Karen Cove, Kathy Mueller, and their families.

A memorial visitation will be held for Joan from 10:30 – 11:30 AM on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at Wichmann Tri-County Chapel, 1592 S. Oneida St, Menasha, WI 54952 with a memorial service to follow at 11:30 AM. Joan will be laid to rest with her parents at Oak Hill Cemetery in Neenah, WI. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to any charity meaningful to yourself. There are so many deserving charities that need a little extra support. Some suggestions would be the Community Foundation of the Fox Cities, United Way Fox Cities, and the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Appleton.

Joan’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the excellent doctors, nurses, and other supporting staff at Willow Lane Assisted Living, Silverstone Memory Care and Moments Hospice for their care, compassion, and expertise during Joan’s times of need.