Joan Passage

Passed away Sunday evening April 19, 2020 at her home. Joan was born on April 17, 1927 in Trowbridge Township to Robert and Pauline (Puschel) Thompson. She was a graduate of Otsego High School and following graduation went to work for KVP in Parchment. In 1962 Joan began a 28 year career with The Upjohn Company in Benefits Administration and in 1982 was awarded the William E. Upjohn Prize. After retirement, monthly luncheons with her Upjohn retiree group were eagerly anticipated as she cherished these friendships. For over 20 years, until health issues cropped up, she met with her good friends, Janet, Bev and Norma, for afternoons of "Crying Canasta," snacks, and lots of laughter. Joan also enjoyed living where she could observe nature and looked forward to the spring migration and the arrival of the Baltimore Orioles and hummingbirds. Her bird guides and binoculars were always ready to be put to use and first sightings were noted on her calendar. Of all her many talents her kitchen skills were legendary. She would "love" her family with wonderful meals for special occasions but also "just because." Feeding her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were very dear to her, brought much joy to her life.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers James, Richard, Henry and Harold; her sisters Jean, Ann Guernsey and Martha Fuller; and by her sons Robert Frank, Steven Robert and Joseph Richard. She is survived by daughters Carol Ann Passage, Susan (Terry) Florian and Judith Kay Connor; grandchildren Heidi (Eric) Venner, Meghan Pauline Florian, Holly Joan Florian, Andrew Terry Florian, Trevor Steven Passage, Joseph (Caitlin) Passage and Ashley O'Rourke; great-grandchildren Liliane Marie Venner, Eleanor Susan Venner and Jaxon Wayne Passage; her brother Roger (Diana) Thompson; many nieces and nephews; and by her devoted cat of 15 years, Shorty.

We are grateful to Dr. Robert LeFevre, his assistant Rachel and his office staff for many years of kindness and excellent care. Also, special thanks to Hospice of Southwest Michigan for their care and concern for all of us. Cremation has taken place and a service will be held in Joan's honor at a later date. Memorials may be directed to Animals Best Friend, Hospice of Southwest Michigan, or a charity of your choice.