M. Joan Murphy passed peacefully at home on April 9, 2026, surrounded by her family-just as she had wished. She was born on May 7, 1929, in Marshalltown, Iowa, to Mark and Madeline Ratajczyk.

From an early age, Joan's energy and enthusiasm were unmistakable. She loved roller skating and spent so many hours on her skates that she wore the wheels down, often needing her father to replace them. She kept her skate key throughout her life, a small but meaningful reminder of those joyful early years. She also delighted in playing jacks, practicing so often that she wore a hole in the side of her shoe. Swimming was another lifelong joy, and she embraced every opportunity to be in the water. As a young woman, she was actively involved in both the marching band and city band during her high school years.

Joan graduated from St. Mary High School in 1947 and went on to become a registered nurse, earning her diploma from St. Catherine's School of Nursing in Omaha, in 1950. Her calling to care for others would remain a defining part of her life. In April 1953, she married Charles "Chuck" Murphy, beginning a devoted partnership and a growing family.

As Chuck's career took them to many different states, Joan continued her work as a registered nurse, often working the evening shift so she could be home during the day to care for her children in their early years. Her life was marked by quiet sacrifice, deep love, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring her family always felt supported and connected.

In 1995, Joan and Chuck retired to Rice Lake, Wisconsin, where they found great joy in their home and community. Their property became a gathering place filled with laughter and tradition-hosting annual Fourth of July parades, family reunions, their 50th wedding anniversary, and countless visits from friends and loved ones. Together, they embraced their community and devoted themselves to volunteer work. Joan lived a life centered on service. In her later years, she generously gave her time to St. Joseph's Church, St. Vincent, and Rice Lake Hospice, continuing her lifelong dedication to caring for others.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Tom (Jo), Kathleen, Bridget (Aaron), Pat (Kate), Eileen (Dan), and Joann; her precious "littles" nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren; her sister, Rosemary, and nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Chuck; and her daughter, Maureen. One of Joan's favorite sayings was, "Every day is a learning experience." Today, we begin learning how to live without her-carrying forward her lessons, her strength, and her enduring love.

Those wishing to honor Joan's life may consider a memorial gift to St. Joseph Catholic School 128 W. Humbird St. Rice Lake, 54868 or the Maureen Murphy Memorial Fund serving women's health needs at Northeastern Rural Health Clinics, 1850 Spring Ridge Dr. Susanville, CA 96130.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rice Lake, WI, Father Ed Anderson officiating, with a luncheon following the service, with interment in the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI. Visitation will be held from 4-6PM Monday, April 20, 2026 at Appleyard’s Home for Funerals in Rice Lake, Wisconsin.

Last Update: Apr 13, 2026 9:21 am CDT