Joan Lois Birch

Joan Lois Birch, 92, of South Bend, IN, passed away on Thursday, October 14, 2021, at home, surrounded by her family. She was born on August 28, 1929 in Western Springs, Illinois to the late Norbert and Eleanor (Lange) Seegers.

Joan attended high school in Western Springs, Illinois. She attended Rockford College and then Valparaiso University, where she met her husband, Theodore Birch. On June 13, 1953 in Western Springs, Joan married Ted, who preceded her in death on August 3, 2020. Joan was a stay-at-home mom and housewife. Later, she became a sales associate for Milady Shop.

Joan loved to go out to eat with her family and friends, and she also enjoyed traveling. She adored cats, especially the two of her own. She was a long-time member of the Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in South Bend, where she had been a member of the lady’s group.

Joan is survived by her two children: son, Tom Birch of Indianapolis, IN, and daughter, Tracey (Joe) Birch-Gore of South Bend. Also surviving are her four grandchildren: Jonathon, Elizabeth, Emily, and Ellie Gore, all of South Bend, as well as two ‘bonus’ grandchildren, Mariah Anderson and Jordan Carrillo. Joan is also survived by her sister-in-law, Erna Woltman, and two nieces, Dianne and Nancy Woltman, all of South Bend. Joan was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her brother, Tom.

Funeral services for Joan will be held at 12:00pm on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 805 S. 29th Street, South Bend, IN. Friends may visit with the family from 11:00am until time of service at the church. Graveside services and burial will follow at Southlawn Cemetery in South Bend. Palmer Funeral Home - River Park Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 805 S. 29th Street, South Bend, Indiana 46615; or Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545.

The family wishes to thank caregivers, Brenda and Melody, for their compassionate love and care, as well as Joan’s hospice team: Amanda, Lori, Tarah, Shay and Bri.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

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