Joan Patricia Sarber

Joan Patricia Sarber, 94, a lifetime resident of South Bend, IN was born on September 29, 1931, and passed from this life on February 7, 2026. She was the daughter of the late Martha (Wawrzyniak) and Thomas Krol, and graduated from Central High School in 1949. She married Sigmund Lorence in 1951, and M. Wayne Sarber, Jr. in 1957.

The span of Joan’s working career included 11 years with Addressograph-Multigraph as a secretary, 15 years with the Standard Oil Company (Amoco) as secretary/district analyst, and 9 years at the Hacienda Restaurant corporate office.

Surviving are her children: Cynthia (Stephen) Vigneault, Kyle (Leny) Sarber, Dana Sarber and Lauren Sarber; her sister, Elaine Molenda; 6 grandchildren: Christopher Rose, Thomas (Stephanie) Rose, Meghann (Adam) Pittman, Daniel Rose, Joshua (Rachael) Sarber, Mellisa Sarber, and 11 great grandchildren: Sophia, Kasen, Nevaeh, Fauna, Rowan, Cedar, Cam, Oliver, Sam, Kaylee, and one on the way.

She was preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law, Marlene and William “Bill” Kestermeier.

Work away from home and raising her family left little time for things she came to enjoy after retirement. Among her pastimes were reading and antique shopping. She also played bridge, enjoyed gardening, and had a deep appreciation for nature. But her greatest pleasure was any time spent with her family. She instilled a strong work ethic and taught the importance of self-sufficiency to each of her children. Of this she was proud and her children grateful.

The family would like to thank the staff at North Woods Village, especially Stephanie and Akudzwe. They also wish to express gratitude to her physician, Dr. Ngan Van, and the team of caregivers from Caring Cove Hospice.

On Sunday, February 15th, family and friends may call from 3:00 - 5:00 pm at the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Dr. South Bend, IN with a rosary being prayed at 5:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Casimir Church, 1302 W. Dunham St, South Bend, IN on Monday, February 16th at 10:00 am followed with burial at St. Joseph cemetery, South Bend, and concluding with a luncheon.

Contributions in memory of Joan Sarber can be made to Alzheimer’s & Dementia Services, 111 Sunnybrook Ct., South Bend, IN 46637 or Caring Cove Hospice, 3120 N. Home St., Mishawaka, IN 46545. To send online condolences, please visit www.Kaniewski.com

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