Joan Helen Ekkela, of Winthrop Harbor, IL, passed away on Saturday, November 17, 2018, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Born in Kenosha, WI, on September 27, 1939, she was the daughter of the late Franklin and Helen (Sucharda) McClusky. She was educated at Lincoln Junior High School and Bradford High School and went on to graduate from St. Therese Nursing School with her bachelor’s degree. On June 15, 1974, she married Dale Ekkela at St. Mark’s Church in Waukegan, IL. Joan was employed by Victory (Vista) Hospital as a registered nurse in the emergency room for 18 years. After that, she was employed at Beach Park Elementary School working in the Special Education classes and retired in 1995. She attended St. Mary Catholic Church in Kenosha. Joan enjoyed going up north to Land O’ Lakes to fish and feed the deer. She was an avid Chicago Bears, Cubs, and Blackhawks fan. She enjoyed road trips with her husband, especially out east visiting colonial and historical locations. She was an excellent cook, famously known for her homemade apple pies and lasagna. Most of all, Joan enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Survivors include her husband, Dale Ekkela; her three sons, David (Susan) Ekkela of Pleasant Prairie, Mark (Erica) Ekkela of Salem, and Eric Ekkela of Pleasant Prairie; three grandchildren, Autumn, Christina, and Jonathan; and a sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Streblow. She is further survived by other relatives, friends, and her dog, Maggie. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Beatrice (John) Rasch and Ted (Mary Ellen) Streblow. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 20th, at Proko Funeral Home from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 21st, at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the American Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Joan’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com