Feb. 20, 1944 - Feb. 3, 2013

ELKHART — Joann L. Kunkel, 68, of Elkhart, passed away Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in her residence after a courageous battle with cancer.

Joann was born Feb. 20, 1944, in Kansas to Timothy Allen and Ruth (Fetters) Cole.

She married Jack L. Kunkel Jr. on Feb. 7, 1964, in Elkhart. He survives.

Also surviving are a son, Jack L. (Keri) Kunkel III of Elkhart; a grandson, Jordan C Kunkel of Elkhart; her mother, Ruth (Fetters) Cole of Findlay, Ohio; her brother, Phil (Melinda) Cole of Findlay; and her father-in-law, Jack L. Kunkel Sr. of Elkhart.

She was preceded in death by her father, Timothy Allen Cole, and her brother, Emerson Cole.

Joann grew up in Findlay and graduated from Findlay High School. She was a lifelong member of Mount Zion United Methodist Church, Findlay.

Joann was an owner and main seamstress for JLK Inc. Interiors in Elkhart through 2008. Most recently, up until her illness, she was employed by Notre Dame as a housekeeper at the Joyce Center.

Per Joann’s wishes there will be no visitation or service. A memorial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to Hospice of Elkhart, 22579 Old U.S. 20, Elkhart, IN 46516; or Mount Zion United Methodist Church, 17572 C.R. 7, Findlay, OH 45840.

Joann was a remarkable woman who will be dearly missed by all those whose lives she touched.

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