Joan L. Sikora

Joan L. Sikora, a child of God, was called to her eternal home on Friday morning, September 23, 2022. She passed away peacefully in her home after a short battle with leukemia. She was born in Appleton on August 18, 1938, daughter of the late George and Gladys (Pendergast) Alger.  On August 15, 1959, she married Charles Sikora who preceded her in death in 1994.  Many will remember Joan for her numerous years of work in insurance at Valley Insurance in Appleton, Warren Insurance of Green Bay, Bud Wurdinger, Art Sankyle, and Cliff Wydeven of Kimberly.  She was a member of the Insurance Women of Wisconsin and Trinity Lutheran Church in Kaukauna.

Joan never shied away from trying new things. She loved to travel and took many trips in and out of the country. She enjoyed bowling in women's and couple leagues at Jerry’s Lanes in Kimberly. Joan was an avid reader, and also enjoyed a good crossword puzzle.  Her love of animals included owning her horse “Suzy” as well as a number of cats and dogs. Great memories were made at the cottage on Lake Helen, and especially at the hunting land called “The Farm” outside of Manawa. She always wanted to be a mom and a grandma, frequently telling others’ how proud she was of her children and grandchildren. Lasting memories of her telling her kids they could do anything if they had a positive outlook and good work ethic….. and always willing to give that little extra push if you needed it. 

Joan is survived by her daughter Molly (Bruce) Reffke and her son John (Toni) Sikora; her grandchildren are Adam Reffke, Zoey Reffke, Alyssa Sikora, Bryn Sikora, and Jack Sikora.  She is also survived by a sister, Joy Thiel.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, sister Jeanie, an infant son Steven, and her husband Charles “Chuck”.