Joan P (Nowicki) Kopczynski

Joan P. Kopczynski, 93, peacefully passed away surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, August 31, 2025 in Memorial Hospital.

Joan was born June 30, 1932 in North Liberty to the late Stanley & Clara (Szymczak) Nowicki. On September 4, 1950 in St. Casimir Catholic Church, Joan married the loved of her life, Chester Kopczynski. He preceded her in death on November 20, 1997.  She was also preceded in death by her brother, Terry Nowicki and longtime friend, Francis (Frank) Fahey.

Left to cherish the memory of Joan are her two daughters, Karen M. (Bob) Lesher, Nancy Ann (David) McInerny, and a son, Gary (Kim) Kopczynski; seven grandchildren, Kimberly, Shelly, and Matthew Lesher, Eric Kopczynski, Claire, Paul, and Alex McInerny; two great-grandchildren, Grace and Michael Lesher.

Joan worked at Bishops Buffett at Scottsdale Mall as a hostess for 18 years. She enjoyed attending Notre Dame Girls Basketball games, going to the movies, going out to eat with her friends, and polka dancing. Joan was loved by everyone she met. Her spunky personality and big heart made her the life of the party. Joan’s family was very important to her; they will cherish all her love and memories. She will be greatly missed by all.  

Visitation will be 9:00am–11:00am on Saturday, September 6, 2025 in St. Joseph Funeral Home, Mayflower Rd., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30am in Holy Family Catholic Church, with burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church, 56405 Mayflower Rd., South Bend, IN. 46619 or to the Center for Hospice, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

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