Joan T. Etzel's Obituary
Joan T. Etzel, age 89, of the Baldwin and Jefferson Hills areas, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 23, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. Joan was born in Staten Island, NY, on January 4, 1935, the daughter of the late Thomas Thompson and Rose Violet (Dick) Elliott.
Joan was the loving mother to Dana M.( Jay) Etzel-Hardman, F. William “Bill” (Kim) Etzel III and Kirsten Etzel (Raymond) Bilbie; the cherished Grandmother of Meghan Davis, Kaitlyn Reges, Colin Etzel-Hardman, F.W. “Billy” Etzel IV, Mikayla Bilbie and Brendan Etzel; and the GG of Asher and Hensley Reges, whom she adored. Joan also leaves her half-sister, Doreen Arcaro.
In addition to her beloved husband of 60 years, Frank W. Etzel, Jr., Joan was preceded in death by her daughter Kimberly Etzel.
Joan grew up in Staten Island, where she later met her husband during his time in the Coast Guard. Together they settled in the Baldwin area of Pittsburgh where they made their home and raised their family.
Joan led a fulfilling life marked by the upmost dedication to her family, community and her passions. Prior to her passing, she was able to document her accomplishments in her life story that she had published into a book. Her efforts were instrumental in the opening of Overlook Green, where she also enjoyed a fulfilling career as a secretary. She was dedicated to the education and wellbeing of children in the community which was shown by her commitment to the Baldwin-Whitehall School Board where she held many offices throughout 26 years and her service with the Baldwin-Whitehall Education Foundation. Joan was an honorary lifetime PTA member, and a former girl scout leader and cub scout pack mother.
Joan's community engagement extended to her time on the Baldwin Boro Council, where she served for four years, and she was proud to serve as the president of Baldwin Community Day. When she had free time, Joan found joy in baking, sewing and in her younger days, ice skating. However, her greatest joy above all was always the time spent among her family.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, 10 am, at Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish, St. Thomas A' Becket Church, 139 Gill Hall Road, Clairton, PA. Burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in honor of Joan may be made to the South Hills Pet Rescue, P.O. Box 224, Monaca, PA 15061.
To leave online condolences please visit www.jeffersonmemorial.com
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