Joanne Burns Muller

Joanne Burns Muller passed Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016. A memorial Mass will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 21 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Newton. The family will greet friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Memorials to Sacred Heart Local Charities or Memorial Masses.

Joanne was born to Perry and Wilhelmina (McCabe) Burns on a farm west of Cosgrove. She graduated from St. Peter’s School in Cosgrove, and attended Ottumwa Heights College. Joanne worked for several years for Hottel Optometrist in Iowa City.

Joanne and Paul Muller married Feb. 6, 1965, at St. Mary’s Church in Iowa City. They were blessed with three daughters, Michele (Jeff) Morgan, Stephanie Affeldt and Kathleen (Tim) Shie. Five grandchildren expanded their family, John Morgan, Stephanie Morgan, Sydney Shie, Emily Shie and Jacob Affeldt. Her family was a great joy to Joanne.

Joanne also enjoyed working with prospective brides as the owner/operator of Brides and More Bridal Shop in Newton. She made many lasting friends through this business. Joanne later worked for Hansen Directory Service for a number of years.

Joanne loved nature. She cultivated beautiful gardens at her home, took many bluegill and trout over the years and bagged messes of morels each spring. Joanne was also an excellent seamstress and cook. Family gatherings were another of her great delights.

Joanne volunteered at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, participated in The Prayer Shawl group and attended Mass not only on Sundays but several times during the week.

Joanne is survived by her husband, Paul; children and grandchildren; sister-in-law, Cecilia Muller; brother-in-law, Paul Byrne; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; mother-in-law and father-in-law; sister, Darlene Byrne; brothers and sisters-in-law; one niece; and four nephews.

Joanne’s family would like to thank Dr. Paul Ruggle and Dr. Patrick Edwards for their care of Joanne over the years.

Anyone who was fortunate enough to have known Joanne knew her as a gentle, witty, loving and selfless person.