Joanne Brand Obituary

Joanne Brand
Barryton, MI
May 27, 1937 - August 21, 2024
Joanne E. Brand passed away at her home on August 21, 2024, after a long illness. She was born on May 27, 1937, in her grandparents' farmhouse near Emerald Lake to James and Helen (McCallum) Corwin. Joanne grew up in Barryton and was the librarian for Barryton Public Library for nearly twenty years, helping to establish Barryton's first library. She also served as Fork Township Treasurer, being elected in 1968, the first woman to serve on the township board.
Joanne married Harold M. Brand in 1955. After a few years living in the Ionia area, they returned to Barryton where they made their home on 40 wooded acres. She spent many hours in the woods berry picking, mushroom hunting, or just enjoying the beauty of nature. She also had a love of gardening, evidenced by the beautiful flower gardens she established and cared for as long as she was able.
Joanne was a friend to every animal without discrimination (except snakes). She particularly loved dogs and was owned by countless canines in her life. She took in every stray, fed any hungry animal that came along, and provided birdseed by the truckload to sustain her feathered friends through the long winters. There will be a capacity crowd at the Rainbow Bridge to greet her. Minutes after her passing, a large bobcat was seen in the yard outside her bedroom window in broad daylight, something she had longed to see in the 51 years she lived there.
Joanne is survived by her son Doug Brand, sister Nancy Johnson, brother George Corwin, and numerous nieces and nephews. Also surviving are step-grandson John Zimmerman, wife Becky, and their family, Grace, Elizabeth, and Aiden, as well as step-granddaughter Monica Brooks and husband Pat. She was preceded in death by her husband Harold, her parents Jim and Helen Corwin, and many dogs and cats.
In respect for her wishes, no ceremony will be held. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to an animal rescue of your choosing or put out a bird feeder in her memory.
Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Daggett Funeral Home in Barryton, Michigan. Leave a memory or condolence for the family at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com