Joan Agnes Snabaitis was a soft-spoken, kind person who was made of grit, courage and an indomitable spirit which served her for her 94 years! To know Joan was to see the twinkle in her eye when she was sharing something funny with you. She never asked for or expected too much from anyone. She endeavored as a young woman born in 1931, found love and friendship through her life and had a contagious smile for all who loved her.

Born as Joan Agnes Shovers in Grand Rapids, she and her younger sister, Joyce (Simms) began their young lives moving to many places across Michigan with their parents, eventually settling in Lansing. After graduating high school, she started a long and successful career at The Travelers insurance company. During that time, she met and married Stanley Snabaitis and moved to Grand Rapids where they enjoyed a happy and quiet life together. They loved their summers at their humble lakeside cottage, and spending time with family. Stan and Joan were married for 35 years when Stan unexpectedly passed away in 1998, and she began a new kind of life.

Having retired from The Travelers, she took a hobby job working for a clothing store in her neighborhood until she knew it was time to fully retire. Joan lived independently until her last day, taking more comfort in her faith as she aged. On January 13, 2025, she woke up like any other day, made her bed, got dressed, but was gone before sunset. A shock to all of us, but like in life, she died on her own terms and in her own time. She lived surrounded by good friends and family who loved her. She will be missed. Joan is survived by sister Joyce Simms, Cindy Wilson (niece), Pete and Matt Simms (nephews), and all of their spouses, children and grandchildren.