Joan Coleman's Obituary
Joan Coleman Obituary
Joan Coleman (nee Grabowski), 79, of North Ridgeville and formerly of Elyria, died August 10, 2020 at Mercy New Life Hospice, Lorain after a two month illness. She was born April 15, 1941 in Cleveland where she graduated from St. Hyacinth Catholic School before moving to North Eaton. She attended Midview High School with the class of 1958-1959. Leaving in her junior year to support her family as a waitress in several nearby restaurants. At the same time she attended Elyria Business College to acquire the skills needed to start her secretarial career. Which she did at F.W. Dodge Corporation in Cleveland from 1959 to 1961 when she left to start her family. When her children were school aged Joan rejoined the work force as Desk Manager at Americana Inn. Moving to take positions at Northwest Vending, then the City of Elyria Utilities Department before finally retiring from the City of Elyria Health Department. Joan was a Ladies Auxiliary member of Elyria VFW 1079 and Elyria United Polish Club. She discovered the Beatles phenomenon in her later years and really took to studying their lives and frequently playing their songs. She was an avid and careful shopper. Whatever anyone wanted to buy Joan could tell them where and how much to pay. She loved going to Amish Country, Walmart, Target, Avon Commons and all the malls in the area. She was intensely dedicated to preventing all forms of animal abuse and mistreatment. On several occasions she would approach those she felt should improve the conditions of their animals and let them know. She was like a mother bear at these times and absolutely fearless. Joan is survived by her husband of 59 years, Howard R.; daughter, Debbie Clifford of North Ridgeville; son, David Coleman of Lakewood; grandchildren, Brian Clifford, Mary (Matheus) Teixeira, Shannon Clifford and Rebekah Coleman; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; and former son-in-law, John Clifford. She was especially proud of her four great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Florence Grabowski and a brother, William Grabowski. A graveside service will be Saturday, August 22, 2020 at 11:00 am at St. Mary Cemetery, Elyria with Reverend Frank P. Kosem officiating. Due to COVID-19 precautions, face coverings are required and we ask that you maintain social distancing. Memorial contributions may be made to your favorite organization for the care and protection of animals. If you do not have a favorite, please take a moment to at least think of something you could do to help an animal in distress. GravesideSt. Mary CemeterySaturday, August 22, 2020 11:00 AM 7284 Lake Ave.Elyria, OH 44035
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