Johanna M. Chenous, a beacon of warmth and wisdom, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2024, with her husband holding her hand at SSM Health - Monroe in Monroe, WI. Born on November 19, 1977, in Rhinelander, WI the daughter of David and Linda (Fledderjohann) Michael. Johanna's life was a testament to her compassionate spirit and unwavering dedication to her family and the countless lives she touched through her work in education.

Johanna was a devoted wife to her husband Andy Chenous and a nurturing mother to her children, Elena Lou Chenous, Owen Bradley Chenous both at home, and Amber (T.J.) Wiess of Blanchardville. Her love and guidance were the cornerstones of their home. She was a cherished daughter to Linda Michael and respected daughter-in-law to Kathleen Chenous. Johanna's siblings, Timothy (Jessica) Michael of Waukesha, WI, and Sara (David) Michael - Luna of Orlando, FL, along with her nieces and nephews, Jack Luna, Matthew Michael, Brian Hammersly, Alec Hammersly, and Kimberly Eskridge, will fondly remember her gentle nature and infectious laughter. Johanna was preceded in death by her father, Rev. David Michael, her grandparents, Rev. John and Lena Michael, and her brother-in-law, Brad Chenous.

She graduated from Madison La Follette High School.  Johanna's pursuit of knowledge led her to earn a Bachelor's degree and two Master's degrees from UW-Eau Claire and Edgewood College in Madison, in the fields of Special Education and Psychology. Her advocation for children was not just a vocation but her calling.  Johanna began her career as a school Psychologist at the Argyle School District, a community she embraced as her own. Later, she continued to enrich lives in the Pecatonica School District, where she was a school psychologist, the director of pupil services and instrumental in starting the Early Childhood Education program.

Her colleagues in the education community held her in high esteem for her dedication and the genuine care she showed for her students and their families. Johanna was a respected board member of the Argyle Public Library and was honored with the Wisconsin School Psychologist of the Year award. Her legacy includes the countless students and families whose lives she improved through her work.

Johanna's interests were as diverse as they were heartfelt. She was renowned among friends and family for her culinary delights, particularly her pastitsio, homemade pizza, and cookies. A voracious reader, she was always keen to expand her knowledge and lend a hand as a mentor or role model to those in need. As a loving mother, wife, sister, and friend, she dedicated all of her free time to ensuring the happiness of those around her. Johanna had a penchant for true crime podcasts and TV shows, which complemented her sharp, inquisitive mind.

An outdoor enthusiast, Johanna relished swimming, boating, and traveling to national parks across the United States with her family, as well as enjoying serene moments in cabins up north.

Johanna’s greatest priority was being a wife and mother.  She shared an open and loving relationship with her children that nurtured their interests. Her favorite saying was, “We will figure this out together.” Her strong, persevering, and loving heart will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at the Blanchardville High School Gymnasium (704 Cross St., Blanchardville 53516) with Rev. Daniel L. Bohlman of Argyle/Yellowstone Lutheran Church officiating. A visitation will be held Friday, October 18, 2024, from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Blanchardville High School Gymnasium and on Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until the time of services at the school. The Erickson Funeral Home in Argyle is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.

Johanna M. Chenous lived a life full of love, learning, and selfless service. Her memory will be cherished and her impact on the world will continue to resonate through the lives of the many people she touched. She will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will forever inspire those who carry her memory in their hearts.

In leu of flowers or plants a memorial fund has been established in Johanna’s name.