Joan(Joanie) Mary Liesenfelt

Joan (Joanie) Mary Liesenfelt, 75, of Kankakee, IL passed away on June 24, 2023. She was born August 24, 1947 in Chicago Heights, Illinois, the daughter of Mathew and Doris (Smith) Liesenfelt. Her parents preceded her in death. Joanie was a graduate of Bishop McNamara High School, Kankakee, Class of 1965. She attended Northern Illinois University and College of DuPage. She was a poet, writer, and author of the book, "Cold Paper: A Mother's Search for her Daughter." She was also a dedicated researcher and member of the ALMA search group for many years, helping adoptees and birth parents find each other. She worked at Kankakee Community College until her retirement. She is survived by her daughter, Lynn Ross of Colorado; her sister, Diana Vits of Kankakee, and her nieces, Susan Cornett of Chicago and Jennifer Vits-Cruz of Michigan. Cremation rites have been accorded. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Cradle.org or ACLU.org in Joanie’s name.