HALLOWELL – Joan Frances “Joanie” Sturmthal, 80, of Hallowell, Maine, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, following a series of illnesses.
Born in Washington, D.C., in 1944, Joanie spent much of her youth traveling as her father taught economics at various universities, including overseas. She pursued higher education with dedication, earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois after attending Oberlin College. She later received a master’s degree in teaching from the University of Wisconsin (Madison) and a law degree from the University of Maine School of Law.
In the late 1970s, Joanie met her future husband, Jon A. Lund. They married in 2000 and recently celebrated 24 years of marriage. Joanie embraced Jon’s children and their families with open arms and shared his love for the environment and the Maine outdoors. Together, they enjoyed hiking, canoeing, cross-country skiing, traveling, and summers at their beloved camp on Lake Cobbosseecontee.
A proud Democrat and advocate for progressive causes, Joanie worked tirelessly for the betterment of her community. She lobbied in Augusta on behalf of the ACLU and was employed by the Maine Council on Aging. Her contributions to Hallowell were numerous—she served on the City Council, supported the Stevens Commons development project financially, participated in a book club for over two decades, and was a familiar face at the information booth during Old Hallowell Days.
Joanie cherished the State of Maine, her time at Lake Cobbosseecontee, and the company of family and friends.
She is survived by her husband Jon; his children and grandchildren; her sisters Annie Bergman and Suzie Russin and husband Linc; nieces Hannah and Leah, nephews Peter and Aaron and their families; Jon’s brother Erik and his family; and her dear young friend Niki Bouchard and family.
A celebration of Joanie’s life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the American Legion Hall, 7 Legion Drive, Augusta. Friends and family are invited to share memories and photos at Legacy.com.
https://www.centralmaine.com/2025/01/08/obituaryjoan-sturmthal-2/