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Joan Rohs

August 11, 2020
Kalamazoo, MI

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Rohs, Joan 10/2/1936 - 8/11/2020 Kalamazoo, MI Joan Carol Rohs passed away peacefully at Rose Arbor on August 11, 2020, after a 5 week struggle with her diabetes related illness. Daughter of the late George and Mary Alice (Barrick) Friedli was born on October 2, 1936 in Akron, Ohio. She grew up in Michigan and graduated from Grosse Pointe High School in 1954. Attending Western Michigan University, belonging to Alpha Chi Omega Sorority, and receiving a BA in Elementary Education in 1958. On August 16, 1958, she married the love of her life, Henry Louis Rohs Jr. "Hank" Joan and Hank had 3 children. Laurie Rohs Chipman (Randy), Gary Rohs (Carol), and David Rohs. Joan is preceded in death by her sister Jan and son David. Surviving is her beloved husband Hank. Married 5 days shy of 62 years. Laurie, Gary and 4 grandchildren: Jessica Rohs Vastartis (Alex), Michelle Rohs Tomlinson (Nick) daughters to Gary and Carol. Brianne Chipman Parker (Michael) and Brady Chipman, daughter and son of Laurie and Randy. The grandchildren remember Grandma's smile, kind heart, big hugs and her ability to simply say one phrase for them to all crack up. There were even times when they'd all be laughing and not even remember why. There are great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends who were special to her, especially the Support Group. Over 40 years, Joan did what she loved, teaching elementary school in Neenah, Wisconsin, North Tonawanda, New York, and Kalamazoo, Michigan. Joan was a "Favorite Teacher" to many and retired from Greenwood Elementary, leaving the building on a Harley, cheered on by the entire school. Joan loved to play bridge, sang in the church choir, and Women's Chorale. For many years, she volunteered at the First United Methodist Church and Bronson Methodist Hospital. Time spent with the Support Group, Fourth of July " traditions" with grandchildren dressed in matching outfits, playing Peanuts, and swimming in the waves at "Yesterday's Dream" were precious memories to her. The family would like to extend appreciation to the many friends and family who supported us through this time. A special thanks to the First United Methodist Church family and to the professional attention the family received at Rose Arbor through those final weeks. Donations can be made to: First United Methodist Church Attention: Rohs Scholarship Fund 2125 Park Street. W, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, September 20, 2020 1pm-3pm Oshtemo Township Park 7275 Westmain/ M-43 Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009 (Behind the Oshtemo Fire Station) Please bring masks. Joan, you will be missed. RIP.