Joanne M. Lapekas

Joanne M. Lapekas of Kalamazoo, passed away November 7, 2014 in her home surrounded by her immediate family. She fought a courageous battle with cancer for several years. Joanne was born in Battle Creek on May 1, 1932 the daughter of Chester and Vernice (Thomson) Knauss. As a child she resided on a farm in Climax, Michigan which is near her final resting place. Later she and her family moved to Scotts, MI for several years. Joanne graduated from Climax-Scotts High School with top honors. She was employed by the Upjohn Company, and later Kalamazoo College, where she was admired and loved by her colleagues, staff and students. Joanne’s priority in life was to be a homemaker, beloved mother and devoted wife, even as she battled the misery of the arduous complications of her illness. Joanne enjoyed her healthier years travelling with her family in the U.S. and abroad. Her hobbies were cooking, sewing and genealogy research. Joanne took pride in her heritage of German, French, Welsh and Iroquois Native American. She was of the Methodist faith, loved the Lord and served as inspiration to others in the way she upheld her Christian values. Her family will miss her dearly, but, take solace in that she is now their guardian angel. She was preceded in death by her former daughter in law Rita Lapekas. Joanne is survived by her husband of 62 years Andrew. Also surviving are 2 children: Ramona Lapekas of Kalamazoo, Robert & Alice (Knapp) Lapekas of Mattawan, grandson: James Cooley and closest friend Cathy Ladd, several nieces, nephews and cousins. In respect of Joanne’s wishes the family had graveside services in Climax. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Kalamazoo Cancer Center, attention: Dr. Marcia Liepman or Hospice of S.W. Michigan. Memorials may be sent to the funeral home. Arrangements by Parchment Redmond Funeral Home, 2300 East G. Ave. 343-6156. www.redmondfuneralhomes.net