Joanne Marie Austin

Joanne Marie Austin, 76, of Red Wing, died Saturday, June 6, 2020, at her home. She was born September 10, 1943, in St. Paul, Minnesota to John and Margaret (Hovey) Zilliox. She grew up in St. Paul and attended St. Joseph's Academy. Following graduation, she worked while attending night classes and later attended the University of Minnesota full time. She graduated in 1971 with a degree in Social Welfare. She then moved to Walker, Minnesota before moving to Red Wing for a new job. In 1978, she met the love of her life, Michael Austin, and the two married soon after. They made their home in Red Wing and the couple had 3 children. Joanne stayed at home for a time to raise her children, but she eventually went back to work at REM for more than 30 years; the last 12 years she served as a program coordinator. A lifelong Catholic, Joanne was a member of the Church of St. Joseph. She taught catechism for a number of years and volunteered at school while her children attended.

Joanne loved life. She was blessed with an innate talent to care for others and her patience seemed limitless. She was a wonderful mother and she adored her children. She also enjoyed finding ways to spoil her dog. She was very proud of having gone to Catholic girl's school and attended alumni events whenever possible. For many years, she and her friends made trips to Minneapolis to cheer on the Twins. She was a natural night owl and loved relaxing with a good cup of coffee.

She will be missed by many, including her husband, Mike; three children, Mary (Mark) Hermanson of Lakeville, Minn., Julie (Todd) Caspers of Devil's Lake, North Dakota and Paul of Red Wing; 3 grandchildren, Audrey, Ted and Daniel; two siblings, Jack Zilliox of Minnesota and Mary Lou Kostuch of Florida. She was preceded in death by her little sister, Patty Ann; and her parents.

A Mass of Resurrection will be Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at the Church of St. Joseph with Father Thomas M. Kommers presiding. Visitation will be from 9 - 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 10, at the church. Masks are expected and will be available at the church if you do not have your own. Burial will be at a later date at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com

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Visitation

JUN 10. 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (CST)

Church of St. Joseph
435 West 7th St.
Red Wing, MN 55066

Mass

JUN 10. 11:00 AM (CST)

Church of St. Joseph
435 West 7th St.
Red Wing, MN 55066