Joan M. Ball

Joan M. Ball

July 1, 1934-August 1, 2024

        South Bend- Joan M Ball passed away peacefully at Memorial Hospital on August 1, 2024. She was born on July 1, 1934, in West Haven, CT to her parents, Antonio Sr and Helen (Niespodziany) Tavares. She is survived by her children, Gilbert (Barbara) Ball Granger, IN, Leslie (Ronald) Newcomb, Bonita Springs, FL, Susan Ball Farr (Thomas Farr) Elkhart, IN, Kristin Cabanaw, Mishawaka, IN; sister-in-law, Carol Tavares; sisters, Mary (Ernie) Niedbala, Helen (Richard) Matthews; brother, Victor Tavares; grandchildren, Craig Moss (Carrie Fox), Matthew Newcomb (Kayla Hammer), Lindsey (Levi) Andrews, Erica (John) Safley, McKenzie Cabanaw (Cody Pennington) and  7 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Richard Ball, daughter, Sherry Elaine Ball, son, David Ball and brother, Antonio Tavares Jr. 
            Joan moved from West Haven, CT when she was a child and settled in Mishawaka, IN. She was 1952 alumnus of Mishawaka High School and worked at Studebaker for a few years until she got married.
            Joan & Richard were married on June 26, 1954 and enjoyed 67 years of marriage before he passed away on August 3, 2021.
            During their marriage they enjoyed traveling and went to many destinations including the Caribbean islands, Europe, China and Japan.
            Joan’s greatest joy was her children and she was happiest when she was with them. Because of her love and unwavering support she taught them how to be resilient to face life’s challenges. She was a wonderful mother who was always there when they needed her offering gentle guidance and wisdom. 
            As we reflect on her life we are grateful for every day we had with her. Our dearest mother, you meant the world to us.
            Visitation will be Thursday August 8, 2024 from 5-7 pm Hahn Funeral Home, Mishawaka, IN. A mass of Christian burial will be held Friday August 9, 2024 at 11 am at St. Monica’s Catholic Church Mishawaka, IN. Interment will be at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park Granger, IN. Donations may be given to the charity of the donor’s choice.
            To leave an online condolence or to share a memory, please visit www.hahnfuneralhomes.com.

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