They were blessed with three children, Stan (Geneva) Thoman, Mary Jean (Dean) Horn, and Marilyn (Arlis) Gascho. Joan deeply loved and treasured her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren: Anthony (Ivy), Abbie, Josiah, Hannah, and Leah Thoman, James (Megan), Maggie, and Simon Thoman, Jeff (Kara), Kaelyn, Jonah, Kolby, Jackson, and Brendan Thoman, Jill (Chad), Josh and Ashton Carey, Daniel, Aurora Horn, Tim (Samantha), Isabella and Makenzie Horn, Kristyn, John Loritsch, Lisa (Andy), Caleb, Braden, and Tyler Hershberger, LeAnn (Reed), Eli, Loralye, and Clara Jones, Andrew (Erika), Forrest and Logan Gascho. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Joan was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ and freely shared her faith with those around her. She was a member of Oak Grove Mennonite Church where she enjoyed singing, teaching, helping with Bible School, and serving in many other ways. She loved her church family, young and old, and enjoyed praying for them and encouraging them in their faith journey.
Joan loved hosting people in her home over an abundant table of food, laughter, and meaningful conversation. She was always ready to welcome new people into the community and help a stranger.
Joan and her husband Joe, along with Joe’s brother Richard (Helen), started the family grocery store (Thoman’s IGA) in 1951. She loved the people she served as she made hot lunches, and homemade deli and bakery items. She also found great joy in delivering groceries. She made lasting friendships with many shoppers from the community. She loved working with all the wonderful store employees, and they were truly family to her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given in Joan’s memory to Oak Grove Mennonite Church, or Mennonite Disaster Service, or West Liberty Cares, all in care of Oak Grove Mennonite Church, 1525 Mennonite Church Rd, West Liberty, OH 43357.
The family will receive friends on Friday November 8, 2024, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Oak Grove Mennonite Church, 1525 Mennonite Church Road, West Liberty. Pastor Alex Dye will officiate Joan’s Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, November 9, at 5 p.m. at the Oak Grove Mennonite Church.
EICHHOLTZ DARING & SANFORD FUNERAL HOME, West Liberty, is honored to serve the Thoman family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.edsfh.com
