Joan J Ciesiolka

Joan J. Ciesiolka, 93, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in the Raclin Hospice House.

Joan was born May 03, 1932 in South Bend to the late Michael and Cecilia (Mackowiak) Pacholski. On February 12, 1955 Joan married her loving husband of 69 years, Robert Ciesiolka. He preceded her in death on December 21, 2024. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Walt Pacholski, Connie (Fred) Lemke, Bernice (Ben) Molenda, Clara (Art) Langel, Sister Mary Fidelis, Molly (Bert) Magdelinski.

Left to cherish the memory of Joan, are her children, Rick Ciesiolka, Randy (Tery) Ciesiolka, Sharon Colburn, Russ (Karen) Ciesiolka; grandchildren, Joshua (Meri) Ciesiolka, Christy (Geoff) Dryer, Kim (Rick) Stephens, Jason (Meredith) Ciesiolka, Matt (Emily) Raygoza, Nicole (Russ) Brancheau, Justin Colburn, Jessica (Dustin) Fritz, Ryan Ciesiolka, Sami (Michael) Bower; 20 great-grandchildren; special nephew in her life, Ron (Laverne) Molenda; and other dear family members.   

Joan was a graduate of Washington High School. She was a parishioner at St. John The Baptist Church and a member of their Rosary Society. Joan worked for Work Force Development for many years. She enjoyed sports, especially Notre Dame Football, baking, gardening, crafting, and occasional trips to the casino. Joan loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and holiday get-togethers with all her family members.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S Mayflower Rd., South Bend.  A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, July 23, 2025 in the funeral home chapel. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

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