Joan Verdeen Schommer went to join Jesus, her Lord and Savior, on Feb. 10, 2026.
Born in River Falls to Irwin and Edna (Morrow), Joan was raised with the values of hard work, faith, and perseverance that would guide her throughout her life. From a young age, she understood the meaning of dedication. Growing up on the farm, she learned responsibility early by caring for animals, tending the land, and developing a lifelong love for agriculture and horses. Joan pursued collegiate studies in Finance and Accounting, a reflection of both her intelligence and her strong work ethic. Even while furthering her education, she remained deeply connected to farming, balancing her academic pursuits with the demands of rural life.
On Dec. 17, 1960, Joan married the love of her life, Mathias Schommer. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Matt (MJ) and Treasa, whom they raised with the same strong morals and work ethic Joan herself embodied. The lessons she modeled of integrity, diligence, and devotion left a lasting imprint on her family.
In her younger years, Joan enjoyed sports and had a particular love for basketball. Her competitive spirit and energy carried through all stages of her life. Horses, however, held a special place in her heart. She took great joy in showing and raising them. Her connection to farming remained constant throughout her lifetime. The land and farming were not simply work to Joan; they were part of who she was.
As her children grew, Joan felt called to deepen her service to others. She attended Bible college and became a pastor at Church of the Redeemed. Her faith was not passive, it was active, bold, and lived out daily as she interacted with others. Through her ministry, she touched countless lives, offering encouragement, guidance, and compassion. Her devotion to serving the Lord led her to travel to more than 20 countries, spreading hope, and sharing her steadfast faith and the salvation message with people around the world.
Joan was a woman of unwavering belief, tireless energy, and generous spirit. Whether working the farm, caring for her family, ministering to others, or traveling abroad, she lived with purpose. Her faith defined her, her work strengthened her, and her love sustained those around her.
She will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, faithful servant, and a woman whose life reflected the strength and grace of the values she held dear.
She is survived by her children, Matt (MJ) Schommer and Treasa Springett, step granddaughters (Greta and Kati Springett), step grandson (Nathan Springett) and his wife (Cara), along with numerous nieces and nephews.
She is preceded by her husband (Mathias Schommer), parents (Irwin & Edna Morrow), brother (Ken Morrow) and his wife (Peg), and brother (Nolan Morrow; known as Doug) and his wife (Barb), son-in-law (Tom Springett), and many other beloved inlaws and numerous relatives.
A Celebration of life will be held at noon on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 with fellowship and lunch immediately following the service. A visitation will begin at 11 a.m. at O’Connell Family Funeral Home: 225 S. Third St., River Falls 54022. Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Big River at 3 p.m.
Arrangements are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of River Falls. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-425-5644.
