Joan L. Barth

Joan L. Barth, 93, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2024. Born on October 3, 1931, she was the daughter of George F. and Dorothy M. (Maurice) Battles dec. She was preceded in death by brothers, Maurice (Pat) Battles and George (Marilyn) Battles and is survived by one brother, Merl (Yaunita) Battles.

On Sept. 20, 1952, Joan married the love of her life, Thomas Barth. From their union they were blessed with five children: Greg (Diane) Barth; Sue Ellen (Drew) Pattyn; Gary (Karen) Barth; Jean (Kevin) Winsch; and Peg Jaworski. Joan also was grandmother to 9 grandchildren, Melissa (Steven) Rowe, Leanne (Ben) Christiansen, Neil (Nicky) Barth, Heather (Gabe) Jones, Andy (Hillary) Winsch, Jessica (Riley) Heeren, Jacob (Erin) Barth, Anna (Steve) Young, Jonah (Rachel) Jaworski and 14 great-grandchildren.

Joan was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church; graduated from Riley High School (Class of ’49) and St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing, where she received her R.N. in 1952. She was active in the Riley H.S. Alumni Association and the St. Joseph Regional Medical Center Auxiliary.

For most of her early life, Joan lived on a small farm on Kern Road in South Bend. She shared many fond memories of simpler times as a farmer’s daughter. Joan especially cherished her family. She never forgot a birthday or an anniversary for three generations of kids and friends, thanks to her amazing organizational skills and trusty calendar. Joan enjoyed golfing, cooking, reading, playing the piano, crossword puzzles, playing cards and was a tenacious player of Candy Crush.

Joan with Tom, were very active socially and had many valued friends. Together they participated in activities and leagues including bowling, bridge clubs, euchre clubs, and travel. Joan was especially fond of Notre Dame football and basketball games and was very enthusiastic while viewing, much to the enjoyment of her family.

Our Mom was the best wife, mother and grandmother ever! She was smart, kind, loving, thoughtful and a hard worker. She was cherished by her family and will be dearly missed. A private family Memorial Service has been scheduled for a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Riley Pediatric Cardiology, 621 Memorial Drive #612, South Bend, IN 46601.