MARQUETTE, Mich. - Joan Marie Saari, 79, Marquette, passed away Sunday, July 15, 2012 at Tendercare Health Center in Munising. She was born on October 19, 1932 in Marquette, the daughter of the late John "Jack" C. and Elizabeth A. (Senne) Harkin.
Joan loved spending time at her camp on Lake Superior, going to Presque Isle Park, cooking for family gatherings and preparing most of the meals for her sons to take to deer hunting camp each year. She also enjoyed socializing with her friends at the Lower Harbor Dock. Joan resided at Pine Ridge Apartments for over 20 years where she made many good friends. She will be greatly missed by all her friends and family.
Joan is survived by three sons: Jeff (Susan) Saari of Albuquerque, NM, Bill (Stephanie) Saari of Fairbanks, AK and Rick (Joanne) Saari of Munising, one brother: John (Sue) Harkin, six grandchildren: Adam, Garret, Travis, Lauren, Nathan and Kate, four great-grandchildren: Camron, Alaina, Tim and Lola as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, infant daughter: Susan and two sisters: Elizabeth L. "Boots" Kitzman and Janet Bourgeois.
Friends may call from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday July 21, 2012 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Marquette. A memorial service will be celebrated at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday at the church with Rev. Marcia Franz officiating. A luncheon will follow services in the church fellowship hall.
Her family would like to thank all the staff at Tendercare Health Center for the excellent care and compassion given to Joan during the past 16 months, where she also made many great friends.
The Allo Coolman Funeral Home of Escanaba is assisting the Saari family.
Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to her family.