Obituary: Joan Maxine Rusnack

Nov. 23, 1935 – Oct. 7, 2019

Joan Rusnack of Sister Bay – wife, mother, daughter and sister – died at the age of 83. 

Joan was born to Hazel and Arthur Begole. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Culver Stockton College and taught grade school in Indianapolis. 

On July 4, 1958, she married Richard Rusnack, and together they ventured into entrepreneurship, owning and operating 33 Hickory Farms stores across the Midwest. In 1968, they purchased the Thorpe Hotel & Cottages from the founder of Fish Creek and developed the property into what is now Founder’s Square, situated at the heart of Door County. 

Joan also owned and operated the Silly Goose General Store of Door County for 47 years. Joan and Richard were avid sailors and participated annually in the Chicago Yacht Club’s Race to Mackinac. Together they will be laid to rest on the rhumb line. 

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her mother, Hazel; and her sisters Gladys and Barbara. 

She is survived by her two children, Penelope (David) and Richard (Laura); her four grandchildren, Alayna, Tyler, Hannah and Griffin; and her sisters Catherine, Harriet and Grace. Joan will also be remembered by her numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.