Joan Marie Johnson

Joan Marie Johnson nee Mertic, 88 years.

Beloved wife of Raymond for 66 years.

Loving mother of Jay (Andrew Kato) Johnson  & Kristen (Rob Jalovec) Johnson.

Cherished grandmother of Sam Johnson.

Devoted daughter of the late Bernice nee Neer & Anthony F. Mertic.

Funeral Friday 9:00 am from Thompson & Kuenster Funeral Home, 5570 W. 95th St., Oak Lawn to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 9401 S. Oakley in Chicago for a Service at 10:00 am.

Interment private.

Visitation Thursday from 3:00 pm until 9:00 pm.

Music was always a love and passion in Joan’s life. Starting at the age of 10, at the insistence of her father, the accordion became her instrument, leading to a professional career with the Chicago musical group, The Accordioneers as their featured player, and a 25 year teaching career with the Music Center. She continued her love of music playing at Church functions, friends and family parties. Joan leaves a beautiful legacy of love to her family and friends and many happy memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary, wildspiritwolfsanctuary.org would be greatly appreciated.