Joanna M. Russ, age 83, of Portage, passed away Tuesday, November 6, 2018. She was born on March 26, 1935 in Gary, Indiana. She retired from Bethlehem Steel where she worked as a crane operator. Joanna was a devout catholic and member of Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church. She loved her dog and donated to numerous animal charities. She loved to cook for other people. Joanna was also a member of the American Legion Post #260 Ladies Auxiliary.

She is survived by her sons, Keithen (Kathy) Russ, Martin Russ; daughter, Sheila (Rob) Robbins; 6 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; one brother, William (Diane) Maluvac.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Brenda Russ; and a sister, Barbara Demers. Memorial contributions in Joanna's name may be made to the Porter County Animal Shelter, 3355 Bertholet Blvd. Valparaiso, IN 46383.

Visitation will be held Friday, November 9, 2018 from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave. Portage with prayers at 5:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will take place Saturday, November 10, 2018 at 10:00 am directly at Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church, 2949 Willowcreek Road, Portage with visitation there from 9:00 am until the time of service. She will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in Portage. For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com .