Joan Phyllis Keck

Joan Phyllis Keck, age 90, completed her journey here on earth, surrounded by her daughters, at her home on October 5, 2020.

Joan was born just outside of Ashley, Michigan on January 2, 1930 to Orla & Sylvia Kerr (Thompson). She attended the Kennett Country School & graduated in 1947 as Salutatorian from Ashley High School. She went on to work at the State Police Post in Lansing, MI. In 1950, she married Kenneth L. Wang with whom she had 3 children with. They later divorced & Joan went to work as a clerk in the Ashley Post Office. That’s where she met the charming Post Master, Charles Keck, Jr.

After tricking her into their first date, they were married on December 10, 1964. Charlie had 5 children from a previous marriage & along with Joan’s 3, they quickly became a very large & blended family. There’s wasn’t any “step” anything, just family... loved as if they were their own. Six & nine years later, adding 2 more daughters for a total of 10 kids.

Joan was active in many activities, mostly in Ashley, throughout her life. She volunteered for various school activities. She chaired fundraisers for cystic fibrosis. For many decades, you could find her working at every election in Elba Township. Her husband, Charlie was a volunteer firefighter for AVFD for 37 years. So in the 70’s, Joan became a dispatcher for EMS. The calls would come directly to the house since it was prior to 911 being implemented. So once again, they found themselves working together. Every since she was young, Joanne love to attend dances, especially the polka dances since her father was of Scottish and Irish descent. She attended Sherwood Music School by mail as a young girl. She learned to play the piano and the accordion. Her family, takes comfort in knowing Joan and Charlie are now waltzing through heaven, together once again.

Her family is forever grateful that her wishes of being at home & surrounded by family were fulfilled. A huge thank you to the staff at Elara Caring Hospice for giving us the means & ability to do so.

Joan took much pride in her big family. She knew every single birthday & anniversary. She has dedicated her life to helping others & is the epitome of a grandma, or Smallz as she was lovingly called by many. When asked how she would like to be remembered, Joan said she would like people to know she’s been so thankful for her big family and how nice everybody has always been to her. She said that she is thankful she had the chance to see all of the kids grow up. She would also want memories of her life to give them joy and not sorrow.

Joan is survived by her brother Larry (Helen) Kerr, daughters: Sherry (Terry) Zabel, Pam (Claud) Felton, Sheila Keck (Gary Allen), Sharon Keck, Connie (Sam) Sopocy, Cathie Keck, Carla Cooper, daughter-in-law, Cathy Wang & sons: Roger (Kathy) Keck & Robert (Kay) Keck. Joan is survived by grandchildren: Michelle, Valerie, Chad, Shannan, Brittany, Blake, Maddy, Jacob, Nate, Kyle, Eric, Tammy, Shawn, Trina, Courtney, Jessica, Tyler, Jennifer, Jason, Kellen, Allison & Adam. Her great-grandchildren: Elliot, Jessica, Alexis, Jared,, Timyah, Bailey, Brennan, Collin, Sheldon, Xaena, Eric B., Ezra, Xander, Reese Ryan, Taylor, Nicholas, Jamie, Kelsey, Colton, Logan, Keegan, Joe, Carla Jean, Reese Irene, Madeline, Ryan, Kenzie, Easton, Carter & Layla. Great-great grandchildren: Hunter, Jaycie Lynn, Saint Michael, Aiden & Scottlyn. Joan was Predeceased by her husband Charles Keck, son Randy Wang, grandchildren Michael & Randi Lynn, great-great grandchild Paisley Grace.

A graveside service for Joan will be held at North Star Cemetery on Friday, October 9, 2020 at 11am. The family is requesting those attending practice social distancing and to please wear masks.

Memorial Contributions can be made to the Ashley Fire Department, Multiple Sclerosis Society or the Ashley Methodist Church.

The family is being served by the Barden Funeral Home. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.bardenfuneralhome.com.

Comments

[Debbie Schestag]

So sorry to hear of Joan passing. She was a wonderful lady. Thinking of all of you.

[laura crocker]

My prayers are with Joan's family. Beautiful lady that will always be remembered in a kind way. RIP Joan.

[Zip Zimmerman]

So sadden by this news, she was always a loving & friendly lady! Love to all the family!

[Phyllis and Daryl Smith]

To all of Joan's family, Joan always had a sweet smile and spoke in a soft voice. She was a beautiful kind hearted lady.she will be missed by many.
BIG HUGS

[Lori Strouse]

Joan’s families, 🥀
It’s so hard to lose someone who has watched us all grow up, given us advice, and a strong woman with a big heart. Prayers for you all.
Lori Strouse

[Barbara]

My sincere condolences to all the Keck family. Joan was a sweet and kind person! She worked on many schoolboard elections and I always knew I could count on her to be efficient and courteous to everyone. It was an honor to have known her! May she rest in peace!

[Donna Jean (Long) Greer]

My prayers go out to her family. It’s been years since we’ve all been together but I have fond memories of Keck Reunions at their house or Don & Rosie’s. She was a very sweet person. May she Rest In Peace with Junior and the rest of the family that have gone before her.

[Brenda England]

I am so very sorry to hear about Joans passing. My deepest condolences to the family.

[Arden Densmore]

So nice she was able to pass at home with her daughters nearby. Heartfelt condolences and prayers for her family.

[Dana & Jon Bottum]

Roger, Kathy & Families,
We are sorry to hear of you loss. Hugs & Prayers for your family as Mrs.Keck is Greeted by the arms of God and many Angels. Love You !

[Susan Morris]

So sorry for your loss. She was a kind and lovely lady.

[Gary and DebbieSchestag]

We are so sorry for the families loss. She was such a kind and nice lady!