Joan K. Roche

Joan Kaye Roche (Scherer), 69, passed away on February 9, 2026. She was born on April 13, 1956, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, to Harvey and Ethylin Scherer, and grew up in the close‑knit community of Juneau, WI. Joan attended Dodgeland High School and later continued her education at Marion University.

In 1978, Joan set out on a new adventure and moved to Montana. It was there that she met the man who would one day become her soulmate, Monte. Their journey together wasn’t always simple, but it was filled with devotion, humor, and a deep, enduring love. In 1984, Joan married into the joyful chaos of the Roche family, embracing it wholeheartedly and becoming an anchor within it.

Joan was the proud mother of two children, her son Michael Johnn and her daughter Kayla Marie. While she had two biological children, her heart had room for many more. Countless others came to know her simply as “Mom,” drawn to her warmth, her kindness, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome.

In 1987, Joan and Monte settled in Sparta, Wisconsin, where they built a home filled with love, laughter, and community. Sparta became the place where Joan’s roots grew deepest. Over the years, she dedicated herself to two workplaces that shaped her life and the lives of many others. In the 1990s, she worked at the Morrow Memorial Home, offering care and compassion to those who needed it most. Later, she discovered her true calling as a teacher’s aide at Sparta Senior High School. There, she found joy, purpose, and a sense of belonging, touching the lives of students and staff with her patience, humor, and unwavering support.

Joan was an avid camper, happiest when she was out in nature or planning her next trip under the open sky. Whether she was sitting by a campfire, exploring a new campground, or simply daydreaming about the next adventure, camping was her sanctuary. Her love for the outdoors was matched only by the strength of her faith. Joan was rock solid in her belief, confident that when her time came, she would be welcomed into the arms of her Savior.

Joan is survived by her husband, Monte Roche; her two children, Michael and Kayla Roche; her two grandchildren, Christian and Trevor Roche; and her older brother, Michael Scherer (Diane). Her biological family, though deeply cherished, represents only a portion of the many people who considered her a mother, a sister, and family in every way that matters.

Services are postponed until further notice.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

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