Joyce E. Benusa

Joyce Elaine Benusa, 89, of Onalaska, WI, a beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 1, 2025 surrounded by family. She was born on July 24, 1935 in Whitehall, WI to the late Bernice (Scow) and Harry Meistad.

While in high school in Arcadia, she met her future husband, Bill Benusa. They were married on September 1, 1956 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Arcadia. Their 68-year marriage was marked by deep love and commitment, creating a nurturing environment for their five children.

Joyce was known for her warm heart, generosity, and dedication to family and community. In Verona, PA, she was a volunteer with Meals on Wheels, and at St Joseph’s elementary school teaching gym and taking the Sisters of St Joseph to their doctors’ appointments. Sports were also a large part of her life, coaching the boys senior league baseball team for a few years. Finally, when she had some time for herself, she started playing tennis in Verona, reaching the USTA Sectional Semifinals in California. She was also an accomplished and adventurous cook and baker, always having dozens of cookies in the freezer. Playing cards was a daily activity with Spite and Malice and Casino topping her favorites list. An avid fan of all sports, her beloved Brewers will miss her advice. Joyce and Bob Uecker will be having spirited conversations. 

Joyce’s legacy lives on through her children: Kathy Reuter (Mark) of Montrose, NY, Bill Benusa (Joy) of Oakmont, PA, Susan Yanckello (Bob) of Oviedo, FL, Tom Benusa (Lynn) of Wyomissing, PA, and Jim Benusa (Charyce) of Powhatan, VA and Onalaska, WI; her 17 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

She is also survived by her three sisters, Arlyn Anthon (Mike Anthon), Marlys Schultz, and Karen Gleason, along with her sister-in-law LaVon Benusa. She was preceded in death by her brothers-in-law George Glanzer, Jack Benusa, Gordon Schultz, and Jerry Gleason.

A memorial service will be held at 11:30 AM on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home, 907 Sand Lake Road, Onalaska. Msgr. Steven Kachel will officiate. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 10:30 AM until the time of service. A luncheon will follow the service. Burial will take place at a later date in Calvary Cemetery in Arcadia, WI.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mayo Clinic Hospice – La Crosse. A check can be mailed to 700 West Ave S, La Crosse, WI 54601. Or the donation can be made online at give.mayoclinic.org in her memory. Click other and add the name Mayo Clinic- La Crosse Hospice. Donations to a charity of your choice are also welcome.