JoAnn Kalcik, age 88, of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026.

JoAnn was born in the small coal mining community of Mulberry, Kansas to Joe and Ann Gracner. The family soon moved to Chicago during WWII where her father was employed making railroad track needed for the war effort. They settled in the 22nd St, Pilsen neighborhood where she and her younger sister, Diane, attended St. Stephen’s Catholic School. Upon graduating, she worked in a hospital maternity ward and then Reliance Federal Savings.

While employed at the bank, it was then that she met the love of her life, Bill Kalcik. They married in 1959 and she began working with Bill in the radio and television business and started a family. They had two sons, William and Scott. Throughout the years, the family traveled extensively to all 50 states, much of Canada and Mexico, and elsewhere. This included Wisconsin Dells where, in 1973, they purchased Meadowbrook Resort and expanded it over the next several years. As husband and wife as well as business partners, Bill and JoAnn shared 64 great years together until Bill’s passing in 2024. They particularly enjoyed many cruises later in life.

As a great cook, she enjoyed preparing the daily meals as well as for large gatherings of family and friends, especially the Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners. Just like her husband Bill, she continued to stay active, keeping the books and assisting with the business, daily. Her family was everything — her husband, her sons, and her two beloved grandchildren. She loved board games but particularly card games: Pinochle, Five Crowns, anything with cards (and she usually won). She will truly be missed by many that knew her.

JoAnn is survived by her two sons: Bill (Ann) and Scott (Annie) Kalcik. She is also survived by her grandchildren Katie Kalcik and Daniel Kalcik; her sister Diane (Charles); her nephews Chuck and Greg; along with other relatives and many friends. She is preceded in death by her husband Bill, and her parents.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 11:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M. at Meadowbrook Resort – Wisconsin Dells; all are welcome.