Adams 1947 Joan (Plummer) Rothballer

Aug. 31, 1929 - Jan. 31, 2018

SOUTH BEND - On Wednesday evening, January 31, 2018, Joan E. Rothballer, 88, of South Bend, Indiana, died peacefully in her sleep surrounded by family and friends. She was a happy and fond woman. 

On August 31, 1929 in South Bend, Indiana, she was born to the late George and Lucille (Berger) Plummer. She married Eugene Barany soon after graduating from John Adams Highs School in 1949, and they raised two children, Charles and Cathy. Joan and Gene remained married until his death in April of 1984. She later married George Rothballer and remained his wife until his death in 1989. Joan was also preceded in death by special friend, Forrest Smith; and two sisters, Betty Gibbons and Doris Swihart.

Throughout her life Joan worked variously as a wife, mother, and grandmother. She was an accomplished cook and seamstress. She enjoyed spending time with her children, Charles (Julie) Barany and Cathy (Kevin) Condon; and grandchildren, Michelle (Michael) Kolenz, Stephen Barany, Cassandra and Matthew Wynn. In her later years she maintained special affinities for oak furniture, boxed wine, and shopping excursions with friends. Thank you to the nurses, aides, and volunteers at Center for Hospice; special friends, Ann Weamer and Judy Woodka; and special care giver, Cindy Hart. 

Per Joan's wishes, there will be no public services in her honor. However, her family and friends graciously accept any prayers you might offer on her behalf, and in a spirit of amity and gratitude invite you to toast the life of Joan with a glass of wine if you find the occasion - preferably Chardonnay, out of a box, and on ice. For the life of this kind, loving, and much loved woman, we give thanks to God. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her. May the souls of all the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. 

Palmer Funeral Home - River Park Chapel, South Bend has been entrusted with the arrangements. There will be a private graveside ceremony at a later date.

Contributions in Joan's memory may be made to Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545.

Published in South Bend Tribune on Feb. 11, 2018

jmc 11 feb 2018