"Mark, You have my deepest sympathy. This reminds me of the sudden and unexpected death of my father at age 55, leaving his wife and three children. I am praying for you and your children. Mark Richetto"
In loving memory of
JoEllen Elizabeth Torresani
November 10, 1962 - June 1, 2016
MIDDLETON/WAUSAU- JoEllen Elizabeth Powles Torresani , age 53, of Middleton, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 1, 2016 in Buffalo, Wyoming while on a vacation with her oldest daughter.
JoEllen went on a hike and did not return in a timely manner. She was later found where she stopped to rest and passed away peacefully on a hill overlooking the beautiful Big Horn Mountains.
JoEllen was born on November 10, 1962 in Racine, WI. She grew up in Wausau, WI and graduated from Wausau East High School in 1981 and UW-Madison's School of Journalism in 1985. She was affiliated with Delta Delta Delta Sorority.
JoEllen was an AFS exchange student to Germany during her high school years. She attended and then led outpost back packing trips for Camp Manito-wish YMCA along with participating in Outward Bound and NOLS expeditions. She traveled with her family and camped in all of the lower 48 states, Canada, England, Wales, and Europe.
On September 3, 1988, she married Mark John Torresani of Wausau. She was employed at Heritage Insurance Co of Sheboygan before embarking with Mark on an around-the-world bicycle trip where they traveled from Wausau, WI through the Canadian Rockies, Alaska, the California coast, the Fiji Islands, Bali, New Zealand, China, and Europe.
In 1995, the family moved to Middleton where JoEllen became involved in school, church, and family activities. She was a Girl Scout Leader and volunteered with literacy issues. She was an avid reader.
JoEllen was a fitness enthusiast and loved paddling, swimming, biking, running, triathlons and Nordic skiing. She completed the Iron Man in 2004, was a Master Swimmer, and a participant in 19 Birkebeiner cross-country ski races. Her greatest enjoyment was being outside with her family and friends experiencing God's great earth.
JoEllen is survived by her husband of 27 years Mark; 3 children; Elizabeth "Libby" 23 (fiancé Jarrick Jensen), Andrew John 20, and Julia JoEllen 12; her parents Joanne and John G. Powles, all of Middleton; her sister Janice (Ben) Levy, of Cedarburg; her brother John D. (Michele) Powles, of Pickerington, OH; her mother-in-law Carol Torresani, of Wausau; 3 sisters-in-law, Cathy (Jeff) Geppert, of Columbus, OH; Lisa (Ashaer) Hamid, of Plano, TX; Sara (Paul) Rossman, of Mequon; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Along with her family, JoEllen was a member of Asbury United Methodist Church, High Point Swim Club, Blackhawk Ski Club, and Madison Nordic Ski Club.
A visitation will be held from 4-8:00 PM on Wednesday, June 8, 2016 at the Cress Center, 6021 University Avenue, Madison. Visitation will continue from 12-1:00 PM on Thursday, June 9, 2016 at Asbury United Methodist Church, 6101 University Ave. with a memorial service to follow at 1:00 PM. JoEllen will be brought to her final place of rest in a private service at Restlawn Memorial Park in Wausau.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials may be made to the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation, Black Hawk Ski Club, or a charity of choice in JoEllen's memory.
JoEllen was loved by many and will be missed by everyone whose life she touched and those who were blessed to cross her path.
Cress Center
6021 University Ave.
Madison, WI 53705
608-238-8406
Tributes
"To Mark, Libby, Andrew and Julia, I am so, so sorry to hear about JoEllen. It is hard to imagine a vibrant and gently woman like her not with us any longer. My heart is with you all. I remember having a wonderful time riding to the Porkies with her and Mark years ago for skiing. My thoughts are with all of you, and I wish you strength in this time and going forward., Julie Kreunen"
"JoEllen and I swam together for years, three times a week, in the same lane, only a few feet apart. At swimming the day after we got the news of JoEllen's passing, I found myself looking for her each time I returned to the wall. I think it will be a long time before I stop looking for her, stop expecting her to be there. We know that she won't be back, but we will never forget that she was here."
"We hope that you can find comfort knowing JoEllen was in the great outdoors that she so loved. Maybe she was singing the Old Manitowish song as she headed for home? Our thoughts are with you the Schott family Rand CC Kaitlin Nick and Will "
"Mark, you and your children carry our hearts . The Klofstad Family"
"So sorry for your loss. We saw JoEllen at the last ski race and we talked for a while, catching up before her event. Afterwards, we saw her walking back to the school, asked her how she had done - she said , okay.. Turns out she had won her race! She was so humble and good natured. We will miss seeing her and knowing. We are so sad for her departure from this world. We hope you are comforted by the good memories you have had. Many blessings and love to you all. Carolyn and Phil DeLong with Christopher and Maggie (Many good pre-school memories) "
"I am shocked and saddened to hear this news. My sincere condolences to the entire family. -- Jay Alexander (classmate since Franklin Elementary)"
"JoEllen gave so much of her time ensuring that her family had active and adventurous lives. She was blessed to have accomplished so much in her short life. Her commitment with Mark in keeping their children involved in activities at a young age made Libby, Andrew, and Julia the strong individuals they are today. Her grace, humble nature, and beauty lives on in each one of them. She will be missed greatly. Out thoughts and prayers go to both the Powles and Torresani families. Ashaer, Lisa, Kamran, and Imrahn Hamid "
"We were so sorry and saddened to read of the loss of your precious JoEllen. 1962 seems only yesterday that she arrived to share her spirit in this world. We enjoyed reading your lovely obituary tribute to her. You have many wonderful memories to share and help to bring some comfort to your loss. Our thoughts are with you at this time as you gather in her memory. With Our Sympathy to your entire family. Jean and Dale Langbehn"
"Mark, Libby, Andrew and Julia, We are so very sorry for your loss. Please know that our prayers are with you. Much love, Jean and Megan Ghergurovich"
"I am so sorry to learn of your loss. My dad called to let me know. I really don't know what to say, other than I feel for you and you are in our thoughts. Chsrlie and Jackie Rochon"
"Dear Mark and family, I was left speechless when I heard of JoEllen's passing. The two of you have lived a life of adventure that others can only dream of. JoEllen's smile and loving gentle spirit are eternal gifts to the world. May you find peace, love and comfort in this time of grief. My prayers are with you, your children, and all the Powles family. Sincerely, Heidi Cude"
"Dear Mark and family,"
"Sincerest sympathies to your whole family. Our hearts break for you. What a beautiful person inside and out. We are so very sorry for your loss. Jeff, Lisa and Jack Helmuth"
"I really can't believe it! 36 years ago, JoEllen was ??my" exchange student in Berlin, Germany. It was so funny with her! Since that time, we wrote letters and got to know the most important things of each other. At last she came to Berlin last year, together with Andrew. I was so happy to see her again. And she was as cheerful, as sporty, as good-looking as she was, when she was 16. We had some wonderful days together. I hoped to see her again in the next years... Mark, Andrew, Libby and Julia, I wish you and your family very much fortitude in that very difficult times. I am far away, but my thoughts are always with you! "
"Mark, I cannot express how bad I feel for you and your kids. I wish there were words to comfort you, but I doubt any words can help.. Just know that I, along with Karl, Keven, Mike, Bill, Scott,..and many more are all remembering you in our prayers and thoughts. "
"John, Joanne, Janice and Johnny; our condolences to your family and the entire Torresani family as well. I will remember JoEllen as a kind and gentle soul always positive and encouraging. Find peace in knowing that countless family, friends and former classmates are holding you in their hearts and prayers."
"Words fall short of expressing my sorrow for your loss."
"I swam with JoEllen at Middleton Masters for many years. Whenever we spoke she was happy and kind. To JoEllen, congratulations on a life well lived. To Mark, Libby, Andrew, Julia, and the rest of her family my sincere condolences on a life which was far too short."
"It's been many years since we lived in Foxridge Hills,but we have happy memories of Tina playing with Rachel at the Otts across the street,and Libby and Ella were frequently in the mix. JoEllen was such a kind person,smiling with ease. She was taken from you far too soon. RIP,JoEllen! Our sympathies to you Mark,Libby,Andrew,and Julia,and all family and friends. The Bloomenkranz family: Laura,Dick,Tina,and Bill."
"Libby, I'm not sure quite what to say. My heart is breaking for you, your dad, Andrew, and Julia. Your mom was an amazing and kind woman. The ten years that my parents and I lived across the street from you are filled with countless fond memories of JoEllen. One that sticks out to me particularly are all of the times that I was welcomed around your family's dinner table. I always looked forward to nights at your house because your mom always helped me feel so comfortable and the evenings spent at that table were so silly and fun! Your mom also had a great sense of humor- she always had some witty comment to make and I got such a kick out of it! She was always working on something, too, whether it was her skiing, swimming, something for the community or for her kids. Your mom was a big part of my childhood and for that, I will always be grateful. She was a wonderful soul and it's so hard to believe she's not here anymore. The road ahead isn't going to be easy, so if you ever need anything or just want to talk to an old friend, give me a call, shoot me a text, anything - I'm here for you. Love to all of you, Rachel Ott"
"Libby,"
"JoEllen was such a graceful person: both dignified and warm, skillful yet modest, the best kind of wife and mother. I didn't know her for very long, but these qualities were unmistakable. Her life inspires me to be "...firmer, simpler, quieter, warmer.""
"Deb, Rachel, and I are all shocked at JoEllen's passing. Mark, Libby, Andrew, and Julia, we can't imagine how hard this must be for you and how much you miss her. We have a lot of great memories living across the street. One of my favorite memories is of JoEllen riding her giant inline roller skates down the street for summertime training for the Birkie. You are in thoughts and prayers._Dale Ott"
"Mark, Libby, Andrew and Julia, I have so much sympathy for you. It must have been wonderful for you to have had JoEllen as a wife and mother. Tom Cwiklo"
"Such a bright light in our world is now in God's hands. Our prayers are with you Mark, and your entire family. "
"Very sorry to hear this tragic news. JoEllen was so modest; I had no idea how accomplished she was in so many facets of her life. I will always remember begging her for recipes after she hosted bunko...the made from scratch fabulous trifle and an amazing butternut squash soup were just of few of the yummy items. JoEllen always went the extra mile both literally and figuratively."
"Our deepest sympathies and continued prayers. We were just devastated to hear the news and can't fathom that we won't see JoEllen's warm smile around the pool. I will greatly miss chatting with her. All our love- The Haefer Family (Dennis, Mary, Paige, Bryce and Hope) "
"What a spirited life she lived. We will continue to benefit from knowing her. She was a great example to us all."
"Dear Mark and family, I am so sorry for the loss of your wife, friend, and mother. What a exceptionally kind woman with a passion for life. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers."
"Dear Mark, Libby, Andrew and Julia, I cannot begin to comprehend this news! My deepest sympathies! JoEllen was one of the kindest people l knew. Our memories go way back to College and working at Camp Manito-wish together! To training together for Ironman on those rare times l could keep up with her and concessions together at High Point Pool. She was special, humble, talented, driven, and a wonderful mother, wife and friend. She will be deeply missed. ❤️❤️❤️"
"JoEllen's exuberance for life, glowing attributes and love for family and friends made her a unique and endearing woman. So committed to her family, JoEllen was perhaps one of the strongest and most effective 'Moms' I knew. Knowing JoEllen since early childhood, from birthday parties to competitive swimming and through adulthood, JoEllen's positive, good natured, and strong support as a friend was evident. I shall never forget her active greeting for me: "Hey Claude!!!!!", and how much she meant to me in challenging times. Her love of the outdoors, family and traveling is to be revered; she was an inspiration for all those around her. JoEllen will be remembered as an outstanding Mother, friend, community member and beautiful woman. My support and love goes out to all of you."
"JoEllen's natural beauty, grace and love for her family and friends were gifts to all of us. With heavy hearts, we seek God's guidance, peace and goodness for her husband, Mark, children, Libby, Andrew and Julia and her parents: John and JoAnn, Carol Torresani and her siblings Janice and John. Our prayers and help are with you. Cathy, Jeff, Peter and Margo Geppert "
"Dear Mark, Libby, Andrew, Julia and the Powles and Torresani Familes, Love and prayers to you. I just can't believe this news. JoEllen was such an incredible, accomplished, funny, gentle, kind and beautiful individual inside and out. Her adventurous spirit led her to undertake things in life that most of us could never dream of doing. She was such an inspiration to me and such a good friend. She always made those around her feel comfortable and happy. She had so much love for her family and for the world around her. God has a special place for her. Peace and prayers to you all. Love, Sarah (Hintz), Dennis, Gabrielle and Christina Bolcer Maple Grove, MN"
"Dear Mark, and all of JoEllen's family - There just aren't words that can express the sorrow in our hearts for you all. JoEllen was always so warm, so funny, so smart, so inspiring. As I've been thinking back on our times together, there are just so many that make me chuckle and smile. May her spirit live on in all of us who knew and loved her. Sending love and prayers and God's peace to all of you. ~ Mary and Andy Blaser"
"Our family is so sorry for your loss. Jo Ellen was a beautiful woman inside and out. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this time. The Meixelspergers"
"Dear Mark, Libby, Andrew, Julia, John, JoAnn, Janice and Johnny, Words can not begin to express how much JoEllen meant to all of us. We will miss her smile, her kindness, and her commitment to enjoying life to its fullest. May her positive spirit be spread to all the lives that she touched. We are here for you, The Rossmans"
"We are very sorry to hear about your loss. JoEllen was a special person, many fond memories of swim team planning so and Girl Scouts. Peace to your family from Chris, Lindsay and Kelley Dillon"
"My sincere condolences and so sorry to hear about JoEllen. Prayers and thoughts are with You and your Family during this difficult time. She will be missed! Jim Gabower"
"There are no words to express how truly sorry we are to hear about JoEllen. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. She was a Superstar in every way and will be missed by all! {{{{HUGS}}}} Mark and Susan Mosher"
"Dear Mark, We are all in shock! JoEllen was the strongest woman I ever knew; physically and mentally. I thought she would live to be 106, at least. It makes me so incredibly sad that she was taken from you, your children and all of us way too soon! She was a wonderful friend with the biggest, most beautiful smile! She had that funny way of giggling, where she would shake her shoulders a little and look at you sideways with her clever, sometimes mischievous, eyes and wide, endearing smile. I will remember her always and miss her terribly. The two of you formed an awe-inspiring relationship that will be admired and remembered for many years to come. Malcolm, Ian, Chandler and I are so very sorry for your loss. Much love to you and the entire Powles-Torresani Family. "
"Mark, Libby, Andrew and Julia, I am so sorry for your loss. JoEllen was such a beautiful woman with a genuine heart of gold. "
"Mark, I am so sorry for your loss. JoEllen must have been very special for God to have taken her so soon."
"Libby, my heart is breaking for you and your family. Your mom was one of the kindest people I've ever known. "
"I am without words. My heart hurts. JoEllen and I have been friends since before Kindergarten. This breaks my heart. She was such a wonderful, person with a beautiful sole. Mark, I am so sorry for our loss, and to your children, Please give them hugs and love everyday for her, as I know she would. Sending you all my condolences and love. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers!"
"I'm so sorry for your loss. The death of a loved one is something we've all experienced, and we all can find comfort in the scriptures. Acts 24:15 tells us of a resurrection, a time when God will reunite us with our lost loved ones on a paradise earth. I hope this helps bring some comfort to you during this time of tragedy."