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BORN
1936
DIED
2024
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Joan Walsh Obituary
Joan Catherine Walsh our beloved mother passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on October 15, 2024 at 3:50pm, she was 88 years young and extremely loved. Born on May 11, 1936 in Chicago Illinois, Joan was a friend to many, always with an open door and heart, a mentor, sharer of wisdom, lover of Chicago, sports and her family. Joan is preceded by her parents Frank and Helen Walsh and now they are reunited in eternal peace.
Joan had an incredible ability to make everyone feel welcomed, loved and special. Whether it was over a laugh with her many friends, a cha-ching on the slot machine, the 85 Bears Super Bowl with the family, a pineapple margarita, a mass with Father Cusick at Old St. Pats, moments with her grandchildren, or over a bite of homemade cheesecake, every moment is something that will forever be cherished.
She is survived by her sister Joyce (John Gach) Walsh, her four beautiful children Michael Halminiak, Brian Halminiak, Maureen Halminiak, and Kevin Halminiak. Her darling grandchildren Heather, Avery, Rylan, Cody, and Paige, all of whom will miss her dearly.
The visitation will be on Friday October 18, 2024 at Nelson Funeral Home 820 Talcott Road, Park Ridge, IL from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Family and friends are invited to share stories to remember her beautiful life and find comfort in one another.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday October 19, 2024 at Mary Seat of Wisdom, 820 Granville Ave., Park Ridge, IL at 10:30 a.m. to send our Joan to her resting place. A celebration of life to follow. Interment will be private family only.
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Memories and Condolences
for Joan Walsh
Sponsored by Chicago Sun-Times.
5 Entries
Pat Elliott
October 21, 2024
She was a wonderful host at house gatherings and someone who made a great impression the first time you met her. You could tell that family was her top priority and she went out of her way to welcome family friends to her home in Park Ridge. I have not seen Joan in years, but my time spent at the Halmaniak house watching sports and sharing laughs remains a fond memory from my days living in Chicago. My thoughts and prayers are with the Halmaniak family.
Lynn Graff Thomas
October 19, 2024
Wonderful video of Joan and her family and friends. I know she will be dearly missed. What a beautiful life she lead. My mom is Sara Graff (Walsh), Joan’s cousin. I loved when I would see Joan at family events because I knew how close she and my mom were in life. Hugs to the family. I look forward to trying a pineapple margarita and raising a toast to your Mom! Love, Lynn Graff Thomas
Joan´s 88th Birthday Dinner
Chris Lynch
October 18, 2024
Michael, Brian, Kevin, Maureen & Heather. We first met Joan in 1987 & immediately became part of your family. We have so many cherished memories of our times in Park Ridge & Florida. We were thrilled to celebrate Joan’s 88th birthday in May. Thanks Brian for helping us with the surprise. We will miss her delightful disposition & our birthday phone calls from her. R.I.P. Joan.
Ethna & Chris Lynch, Sarasota.
Cyndy and Paul Oris
October 17, 2024
Dear Brian and Kevin and the entire Halminiak family,
It has been a sad end to a rough summer, but we are so glad that we were able to meet Joan at the beginning of her illness. What an inspiration for us all!
Linda Gabrilo
October 17, 2024
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
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