In Memory
JoAnn (Hagenbuch) Dake
May 21, 1939 ~ February 7, 2025
JoAnn Dake, a cherished member of the South Bend community and a beacon of warmth and care, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on May 21, 1939, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Clarence and LaVergne (Grassby) Hagenbuch, JoAnn's life was a testament to her unwavering dedication to her family, her profession, and the simple joys of life.
JoAnn's journey through life was one marked by love, commitment, and service. She was the beloved wife of John Dake, with whom she shared a lifetime of memories and unwavering partnership, married on December 31, 1960 in South Bend, Indiana. Together, they raised a family that became her pride and joy: daughter Carolyn Brooks of South Bend, IN; daughter Holly (Robert) Biggs of South Bend, IN; and son Todd (Debbie) Dake of New Carlisle, IN. JoAnn's role as a grandmother and great-grandmother was one she cherished deeply, leaving a legacy of love and wisdom for her grandchildren Caleb, Thadeus, Ian, David, Joshua, Ryan, Amanda, and Samantha, as well as her great-grandchildren Rylee, Emmett, Esme, Kash, Adien, Asher, Atticus, Anastasia, and Nora.
A lifelong learner and caregiver, JoAnn earned her degree in nursing, a field in which she excelled and found her calling. For 45 years, she served as a Registered Nurse, touching countless lives with her compassion and expertise before retiring in 2005. Her dedication to her profession was not just a job but a true vocation that reflected her innate desire to help and heal others. JoAnn volunteered at the Ronald McDonald Family Room for many years; worked for the state board of health inspecting nursing homes; she was the Director of Nursing at River Park Nursing home and worked for Memorial Hospital in South Bend for many years as well.
Beyond her professional achievements, JoAnn was known for her love of the outdoors. She was an avid camper, a hobby that brought her closer to nature and provided countless cherished moments with friends and family. Every weekend, she could be found gathered with her closest companions, sharing stories and laughter. These moments were not just pastimes but a reflection of her belief in the importance of community and the nurturing of lifelong friendships.
JoAnn's love for her family was the cornerstone of her life. She created a home filled with warmth, where every family gathering was an opportunity to express her love and where every holiday was made special by her presence.
A memorial service will be held Monday, February 17, 2025 at 6:00 pm at Palmer Funeral Home – Welsheimer Chapel 17033 Cleveland Rd. South Bend, IN 46635. Friends may visit with family from 4:00pm-6:00pm prior to the service. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com
02/11/2025 djb
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