Joan E. Nowak

Our beloved aunt, Joan E. Nowak, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2022. Joan was born on January 15, 1933 to Paul and Katherine Nowak. Joan was the baby of the family and was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Sophia, Cecilia, Stephanie, Stanley, Alice, Bernadine, Norman, John, and Lillian. Joan graduated from Libbey High School and soon after began working at Ohio Bell, first as a long-distance operator and then as a repair clerk. She retired in 1989 after 39 years of service. Joan fully enjoyed her freedom after retirement and looked forward to yearly trips to one of her favorite places, Las Vegas. She will be remembered as a strong, independent woman who didn’t believe in sugar coating her feelings and opinions. Her humor, zest for life, and love of others is something we can all carry with us. She leaves behind an abundance of memories and stories that her family will never forget and continue to tell in the years to come. Joan cherished her extended family and friends, and would do anything for them. She is survived by 16 nieces and nephews, and 26 great nieces and nephews. Joan would always say that she loved them all equally, but the family knew that her great nephew, Lucas, was her true favorite. Per Joan’s wishes, there will be no memorial service. In remembrance of Joan’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Hospice of NW Ohio. “The Road goes ever on and on Out from the door where it began. Now far ahead the Road has gone, Let others follow it who can! Let them a journey new begin, But I at last with weary feet Will turn towards the lighted inn, My evening-rest and sleep to meet.” – J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings