Joan Fahey

    Joan Ann (Kohler) Fahey, born March 20, 1930, in Derby, Connecticut, passed away on December 12, 2025, at the age of 95, surrounded by the love of her family. She was the cherished daughter of John Kohler and Genevieve (Turechek) Kohler, both of whom preceded her in death.

    Joan pursued her passion for learning by earning her master’s degree from Western Reserve University, School of Library Science. Her education became the foundation of a lifelong dedication to literacy, knowledge, and community enrichment.

    On December 27, 1952, Joan married the love of her life, Chauncey Fahey. Their marriage was a true partnership, filled with devotion and joy, lasting until Chauncey’s passing on November 13, 2003. Together they raised seven children, who were the pride of their lives: Michael, William, James, Donna, Nancy, Mary, and Laura.

    Joan is survived by her beloved children: Michael and his wife Tina, Laura Shepard and her husband Brian, William Fahey and his wife Ronda, James Fahey, Donna Freeman and her husband David, Nancy Smith and her husband Paul, Mary Demeulenaere.

    Joan was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, each bringing her immense joy. She was deeply proud of her growing family and cherished every moment spent with them.

    She was preceded in death by her Parents John and Genevieve, her husband Chauncey, her daughter-in-law- Laura Fahey, and her son-in-law Steve Demeulenaere.

    Joan will be remembered for her love of books, and the unwavering devotion she held for her family. Her legacy lives on through her wonderful family and in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

    A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 11:00 AM, in St. Jude Catholic Church, 19704 Johnson Rd, South Bend, with a visitation one hour prior in the church. A burial is set to take place in the summer next to her husband in Fort Custer Cemetery.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joan Fahey, please visit our floral store.