Joanne Lee Winowiecki (Anderson), 50, of Traverse City passed away at Munson Medical Center on January 17, 2020. She was born April 2, 1969 in Traverse City to parents Thomas J. and Victoria (Mashka) Anderson.

Joanne attended and graduated from Traverse City High School. She also completed training as a cosmetologist. She worked hard for TCAPS as a school bus driver for 20 years, oftentimes dressing-up in costumes for her little passengers. She married the love of her life, Scott Winowiecki, in 1992. In total, they spent 36 years together.

Joanne left her mark on this world in so many ways during her young life. She was very proud of her Indian heritage, belonging to the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. She was an honest and fair person, loyal, and a fierce protector of her family. She was the glue that held it together. Though we already feel lost without her, we must keep honoring her through how we choose to live — respectfully, positively, and full of love.

As a mother, her proudest accomplishments were her two sons and grandchildren. Joanne was always the biggest supporter of her loved ones, but also wasn't afraid to call you out if necessary. Joanne's caring and giving spirit could be seen through her amazing baking skills, passed on to her by her beloved Grandma Harp. Anytime the need arose, or she just simply felt like it, she would bake in order to give to others.

She was an avid boater and sun worshiper. Being on the water, especially East Bay, was her happy place. She and her family spent countless hours traversing local waterways and beaches soaking-up the summer sun. Joanne was a sports fanatic paying especially close attention to basketball and football. Her relationship with the Detroit Lions was "strained", but she still loved them dearly.

Joanne leaves behind her husband and best friend, Scott Winowiecki; sons, Craig (Dana) and Kellen (Taylor Russnak); grandchildren, Harken and Aria Winowiecki; granddogs, Coco and Nash; sister, Lisa (Joe) Cox; brother, Tom Anderson; father and mother-in law, Fred and Judy Winowiecki; her second mom, Lyndelle Core; nieces, nephews and extended family; and many treasured friends.

She will be met by her parents, Thomas J. and Victoria Anderson, brother Eddie Anderson and dogs, Sadie and Knox.

A memorial service honoring Joanne will take place Friday, January 24, 2020, 11AM, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth Street, Traverse City. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service, as well as on Thursday, January 23, from 6-8 PM, also at the funeral home. The Holy Rosary will be prayed at 7:30PM.

Joanne's family asks that memorial contributions be directed to her grandchildren Harken and Aria, to start a memorial fund for them.

Joanne and her family are being cared for by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services. www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com