Joan Wenke passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 4, 2026. Joan was born June 25, 1939, in Paterson, New Jersey, to Reverend Carl J. Schroeder Sr. and Cassie Vandervliet Schroeder. She had a long and loving marriage with her husband, Lee Henry Wenke.
Joan is survived by her children, Curtis Lee Wenke, Joan Caroline Foster(Joni), and Donna Lynne Jones; four grandchildren, Taylor, Kalyn, James, and Joel; her in-laws Lois and Gary Sulka; and nieces and nephews on both the Schroeder and Wenke sides of the family. She joins in eternal rest her husband, Lee; her siblings, Carl and Lucille Schroeder; and Marion and Don Buteyn; and her in-laws, Donna King and Richard King (Decorated USMC).
A proud 1960 graduate of Hope College, Joan earned her degree in Secondary Education and, more importantly, met her husband, Lee. They married on December 23, 1960, beginning a 62-year journey together. Joan was a devoted mother to three children and a faithful wife. She skillfully managed the family’s many moves as Lee’s career flourished. At each stop, Joan turned a new house into a “Wenke home” where her family could thrive. Joan had a remarkable gift for friendship; at every stop on her life’s journey, she made dear friends who stayed close to her heart for a lifetime.
Family was always Joan’s priority. While, she enjoyed teaching for four years before having children and later worked as an administrative assistant at various institutions. She especially cherished her years at the Davidson Honors College at the University of Montana, where she succeeded in the vibrant academic atmosphere, found delight in mentoring students, collaborating with colleagues, and never tired of the breathtaking, year-round views of Missoula.
In retirement, Joan’s hands were rarely still; she loved to read, garden, and quilt. A gifted quilter, she shared her “masterpieces” with many friends and family members. She was a devoted grandmother who made every visit feel like a royal occasion, always preparing her children’s and grandchildren’s favorite meals. Joan was a member of HASP, a loyal member of Hope Church where she participated in Readers group and her beloved Circle.
Returning to Holland, Michigan, was the “ultimate blessing” for Joan and Lee. Surrounded by longtime friends from Hope College and Hope Church, Joan found a deep sense of community. Near the end of her life, she served as a dutiful caregiver to Lee. She was deeply grateful for the love of her Stoney Lake neighbors during that time—especially the Marys, Nancy, Lisa, and Gary.
A memorial service will take place at Hope Church on October 22, at 1:00 PM, with a reception to follow. Joan’s friends, Rev. Dr. Gordon Wiersma and Rev. Dr. Gretchen Schoon Tanis, will lead the service and remembrances.
In lieu of flowers, please give to the Hope Church Memorial Fund.
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