Joni Kaye Fuiten Obituary (1957 - 2023)

Joni Kaye Fuiten, 66 of Auburn, formerly of Virden, passed away peacefully, Sunday, December 31, 2023 at Memorial Medical Center, with her loving family by her side. Ultimately, she left this world the song “Sweet Caroline”, which gave her family peace. She was born March 4, 1957 in West Frankfort, Illinois daughter of Walter and Joann (Loeschner) Rose. She married William “Tony” Fuiten on September 6, 1975 and he preceded her in death on December 5, 2021. Joni was a Girard native, although she raised her kids in Virden. The Fuiten house was known to have an open door to many friends and neighborhood kids. Growing up, she was known as the “cool mom”. She liked bingo, but her real passion was her green thumb. She was highly elated and at peace during her sessions with her many houseplants. She loved green. In line with her personality, to be blunt, nothing compares to her. She was one of a kind. When she loved, she loved with her whole heart. Joni is survived by her children, Shannon Marie Fuiten of Kewadin, MI, Cory Alvin (Jennifer) Fuiten of Virden and Casie Kaye (Phillip) Sanders of Pawnee; grandchildren Katelyn Crawford, Curtis Crawford, Chloe Fuiten, Emma Fuiten, Andrew Jockisch, Emma Sanders, Jackson Sanders and Lily Sanders; brother Tony Ray (Cindy) Rose of Girard; Aunt Janie Loeschner; Sister-in-law Judy Conway and several nieces, nephews and cousins. In keeping with Joni’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. Visitation will be Wednesday, January 3, 2024 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Airsman & Calvert Funeral Home in Virden. Joni will be laid to rest next to her loving Husband, Tony at Virden Cemetery. With Joni’s love of flowers, her family request that in lieu of memorials, friends are asked to send flowers to help celebrate her life. Joni’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the Staff of Eastland Retirement Community for their love and great care that was given to their Mother. Airsman & Calvert Funeral Homes, Virden is honored to be caring for Joni’s family