Joanne (Kowlsen) Elali was born in Detroit, Michigan November 23, 1939. Her infectious smile lit up any room and her sweet spirit warmed and enveloped all who knew her. Joanne was beloved by everyone she met, blessed with a  warm heart, she was a caring person who would listen to you and in a soft way would help, council, encourage, and do all she could to help. Her hope of one day becoming a police officer was taken away from her at 17 due to an accident, and her primary role became a stay at home mother. Yet Joanne still found ways later in life to reach out to others to help as a case worker for the state of Michigan.

Her greatest joy was in her family, Joanne was loving, loyal, and fiercely protective. She pulled into the family fold many kind, loving friends who also experienced her deep love and commitment. Joanne enjoyed and made the most of every minute she spent with those she loved, whether in person or on the phone.

Her love of life was strong and her curiosity and passion for experiencing new adventures was always a hallmark of her life. Even though her health left her confined to her bed in her later years, the world was brought to her and she  enjoyed looking at new places and people and especially experiencing different cuisines.

Joanne greatly loved her "furry grandchildren" and greatly enjoyed having them with her, including her "Doctor Noopy" who would lay by her side every morning for her vitals check and then happily receive a lickable treat for his fine care of his best (only) patient.

Joanne was also firm in her faith and believed with her whole heart in complete childlike trust in Jesus.  She also had a special love for Mother Mary, and slept with an LED candle of Our Lady next to her bed to always see her and comfort her if she woke up at night. Joanne also had a deep love for Padre Pio, and St. Therese,  praying to them often and she supported many causes.

Joanne is survived by her daughter, Dana Kowlsen-Scobey, and her son in law, Alan.

She is also survived by her sister Gloria Hinchey, brother in law James, and her nieces Cindy, Cathy, Susan, and Julie, and many great nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her parents, Edward and Frances Baran.

She passed away peacefully, with her family surrounding her with love.