Meet a true Lake Country gem who has called this community home since 1967. After moving from Milwaukee to Dousman as the tenth of eleven children, she grew up surrounded by the energy, love, and life lessons that come with a big family. In 1979, she married her high school sweetheart, Julian, and together they’ve built a beautiful life in Pewaukee, living in the home that’s been in his family for generations.
She and Julian raised two wonderful children, Adam and Marianna, who now have families of their own and live nearby—making it possible for her to enjoy one of her greatest joys: being an active and loving presence in the lives of her grandchildren.
A dedicated Occupational Therapist, she retired in 2021 but recently returned part-time to help a friend launch a new business. Over the years, she’s worn many hats—coaching youth sports, volunteering with the Boy Scouts, and staying deeply involved with St. Anthony on the Lake Catholic Church. Her commitment to service continues today through her involvement with the Lake Country Optimist Club and the launch of the Junior Optimist Club at Kettle Moraine High School, a project close to her heart and one that’s already making a meaningful impact.
Her story is one of deep roots, unwavering dedication, and a genuine love for her community and the people in it.
About Joan Millane Herrera
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I’m married to my high school sweetheart, Julian, and we’ve built a wonderful life together here in Lake Country, living in his family home. We have two children—Adam, who is married to Lenora and has two children, Layla and Deacon; and Marianna, who, along with her husband Brandon, has two boys, Parker and Dekker. Being close to our children and grandchildren is such a gift, and we cherish every moment spent with them.
Q: Please tell us about your life and what you do (whether working in our community, a business owner, volunteer, etc.). How did you choose that path?
Julian and I retired in 2021 and have truly enjoyed watching our grandchildren before they started school. With the youngest two set to begin full-time next year, we feel it has been such a blessing to have been such a present part of their early years.
I continue to run my Market America business, which allows me to help others with their health and wellness—something I’m passionate about. I also work part-time at Hartland Terrace and Avid at Home LLC in Hartland, supporting my friend Jen in what I call our “playtime” together.
One of my greatest joys, though, is my involvement with the Lake Country Optimist Club. I’ve had the honor of serving as President and remain a dedicated volunteer. I truly believe in the club’s motto and creed: finding the best in everyone. Whether it’s participating in fundraisers or awarding scholarships to local students, it’s incredibly rewarding work.
Leading the Junior Optimist Club has also brought me so much joy. It’s given me the chance to connect with teens again and witness firsthand the kindness, potential, and goodness that so many people overlook.
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
I am most content when I’m able to give back to others and brighten their day, even just a little. I truly love seeing someone smile—especially when I know they don’t have much to smile about. Watching young teens develop leadership skills and give back to their community brings such joy. I believe in seeing the best in others and helping them recognize it in themselves.
Q: What was the most difficult challenge in getting to where you are now or in your life?
One of the most difficult challenges I face is coming to terms with getting older. My mind still feels ready to go, go, go—but I’m learning to recognize that my energy has its limits. Finding the balance between staying active and giving myself grace isn’t always easy. Letting go of the idea that I can do it all has been a journey, but I’m learning to appreciate the slower moments just as much as the busy ones.
Q: What is the most rewarding part?
The most rewarding part is seeing the smile on the face of an elderly person or a child. I find great joy in watching others grow and learn to give back—no matter their age or what they have to offer.
Q: What are some of your future goals? Do you have anything exciting coming up that you would like to share?
I hope to continue teaching others to share what they have, to prioritize their health in retirement, to keep learning along the way—and to enjoy fun, relaxing moments with friends and family.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in doing something similar to what you have done/are doing?
My best advice is this: if you start something, give it your all, stay true to your word, and lead with your heart. You’ll never regret giving your best—even when it’s something you don’t particularly enjoy.
Joan Millane Herrera & Our Community
Q: What is your favorite thing about our community, favorite thing to do, or something unique about our community that you love? (Feel free to share as much as you’d like!)
I love our parish, St. Anthony on the Lake Church. The family program has truly been a gift to all of us. We feel so fortunate to live in this area—we enjoy our backyard pool, the local festivals, and all the amazing opportunities nearby, like bike trails, lakes, and golf courses.
Q: Who is an interesting person you’ve met here in our community, and how have they inspired you?
My family reminds me every day to stay true to myself.
Q: Do you have a favorite coffee shop, cocktail shop, or restaurant?
We love Sunnyside Up restaurant in Dousman—it’s one of our favorite local spots!
Q: What 3 words would you use to describe our community?
Friendly, Giving & Peaceful.
For Fun
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I enjoy taking naps.
Q: What is your favorite book, TV show, movie, poem, or song? Why?
Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning deeply resonated with me. I was inspired by his ability to find goodness even in the most unimaginable circumstances, and his message that life holds meaning—even in suffering and death. It’s a reminder to never, ever give up.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My sister Ellen has stood by me through the toughest times in my life. She’s been a constant source of strength and has inspired me to take things one step at a time and keep life simple.
Q: If you were a drink (can be a coffee drink, alcoholic, non-alcoholic, etc.), what would you be?
I love McDonald’s Diet Coke—maybe a little too much! It might make some people cringe, but that might just be my thing.
Q: If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be with? Why?
My family—any time I get to spend with them is a true treasure.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
A trip to Hawaii or Alaska would be amazing—I just wish the flights weren’t so long!
Q: What makes you the happiest?
I feel my best when I’m content and there’s a sense of balance in my life.
Q: Any general life advice you would like to share?
Give with love in your heart, and find joy in what you’re doing—even when it’s tough. That’s when it truly matters.
Nice To Meet You:
I believe in positively impacting my clients and the community I live in, which is why I jumped at the chance to be an ambassador with “The Faces of Lake Country”. It’s a perfect blend of why I enjoy being a Realtor with Shorewest, Realtors, and everything I love about living in Lake Country.
I truly enjoy being a part of this community and helping others along the way. Prior to real estate, I was an Office Supervisor for the City of Waukesha Park & Recreation Department. During this time, I had the opportunity to work with many business owners and serve the general public. It was there that I realized that it really does take a village to make a community great and each and every one of us plays an important role.
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