Joan B. Reed

So many memories come to mind as I think about Aunt Joannie. I remember her many talents; she was intelligent, witty, and had an amazing memory. But I especially remember her wonderful stories. I loved to hear these stories- stories about her and her sisters when they were growing up, stories about older relatives, some of whom I had never met, but whom I felt I knew because of her skill in bringing her "characters" to life, and stories about us, her nieces and nephews, when we were young. She remembered every detail, and loved to remind us of those times. Even though I had heard most of those stories so often that I knew them by heart, I loved to listen to her tell them and will always remember how they made us laugh--I hope I will never forget. There is no doubt that she loved her family and had great interest and pride in all her nieces and nephews. Even as we grew up and began our own families, she continued to be interested in our lives and in getting to know our spouses and children.
She surely had her share of pain, disappointments and regrets in her life, especially in later years, but she did not discuss that, and instead, focused on the positives in her life. I am glad to have been able to spend a little time helping her the summer that she prepared to move from the house on D Street. Not only did it give me a chance for one last visit to the house where so many happy times were spent, but it also was an opportunity to see how gracefully she accepted this change in her life. At a time when she easily could have been depressed or angry about having to give up her home, instead she showed resignation, acceptance, and her usual sense of humor.
I am grateful for all the joy and laughter she gave us, and for the love and concern she had for us all.
May God grant you eternal peace Aunt Joannie. Love, Bobbi

I loved my Aunt Joannie (AJ) very much. As a child my family spent so many holidays with AJ and Grandma. Year after year, I enjoyed sitting at the kitchen table while AJ told me stories. And who could forget those incredible cookies she would bake every Christmas! She was so full of love and she shared her love with everyone around her. I learned so much from AJ; she was a wise and compassionate person. I will miss her immensely.

She always asked me about my problems. But I can’t remember her ever telling me about her own. She would tell me about other people’s troubles, about their lives and their difficulties, asking me to remember to say a prayer for so-and-so. But she never wanted my prayers for herself. It never was about her. When I asked how she was doing, it was always a shrug, a roll of the eyes and then very quickly changing the subject with a memory about Gregory Peck or Greer Garson.

She said to me “These are the cards we’re dealt, Jay”

And if there’s anyone in this world who knew how to turn a rough hand into something great, it was her.

My Fair Lady indeed.

Joannie was born a Lady. She was refined, sociable, cultured, well-mannered, gracious, highly intelligent and had an excellent sense of humor.
Despite her recent maladys, she endeavored to maintain the highest level of dignity that her failing health would allow her.
My sister-in-law was one of the finest people I have ever known and my life is better for having known her. I will miss her terribly.

My memories of my sister Joan are special and varied.I recall that in the early years, Joan, as the oldest sister, hovered over us and "took charge". Her creativity and great imagination provided us with so many entertaining activities and great childhood memories.
In later years Joan was an important part of our families. She was thoughtful and generous to me and my family. She enjoyed being a part of holidays and special occasions shared with our children and more recently with our grandchildren.
I miss talking to her as I tried to call her each day. Her sudden death was a shock, but I do find consolation in knowing that she will not have pain and the inconvenience of coping with those troublesome legs.And through it all, she kept on smiling.
Eternal rest and peace to you, Joan. Bertie

Even though I did not see her much I always loved hearing my grandmother say we were going to visit "my Aunt Joanie". No matter what time of day she was always so happy, and I feel bad for falling asleep the last time I saw her. No matter what, she was always thinking of us. It warmed my heart to see the happpy conversation my ancestors would share with her. I only saw her about once a year, but I miss her so much. I don't understand why this had to happen, but I've been told everything happens for a reason. I am just hoping evrey day that she is doing better with God, and as much as we miss her we all have to let her go. She was a loving, caring person , and we are all crushed to see her go. Love in my heart, Spencer

My heart is heavy as I come to grips with the reality that Joannie is gone. I still think it is her calling when the phone rings. We talked at least once a day and more often if we had something of interest to tell. I was very close to Joannie these last years since we moved back to Johnstown after Mum passed away. She spent most holidays at our house and we always played pinochle, Rummikub or Scrabble and she was a master at all of them. We also enjoyed her visits with Mum to Phoenix, AZ when we lived out there. I always would schedule a bus trip to Las Vegas where Joannie loved to play the slots. Those trips were so much fun and she looked forward to them each March. Her passing has left a big hole in our lives which we will fill to overflowing with all our wonderful memories. She is now at peace in Heaven where I know we will meet again.

My sister - my friend - my matron of honor - godmother of my Gregory and Amy - travel companion - pinochle partner, etc., etc.: I'm missing you. Even though I have been in Phoenix for eight years, I spoke to you every few days and exchanged news with you. I remember our childhood so vividly, especially the school days: I was a better student because I followed in your academic shoes and the nuns expected me to be more like you. I loved movies because you did and you shared so much trivia with me about that. I miss the stories you told and the songs we always sang. I treasure the time we lived near each other in Chicago and all that we did and saw in that city was special. I loved all the trips we took together and especially the annual weeks at the Delaware shore. You were so happy to go with us and you truly were our "Hazel," preparing gourmet meals while the children and I cavorted on the beach. I will always remember the Friday and Sunday night 5- to 6-hour marathon pinochle we played with Mom (on a good night one could come out 65 cents ahead!) I am grateful for the 41 years in a row that we shared our traditional Christmas Eve together. The little pageants, the carol singing, and the Manhattans shared with Joe. Dearest One: I know life wasn't easy for you and I am sorry I couldn't be there for you these last few years, but it's comforting to know we had no unresolved issues and there is no "wish I could have, would have, should have" because we DID! I bless all my dear sisters, especially Bertie and Fran who looked after you daily. Keep us in your prayers because you are in our hearts. Patti

My memories of dear Aunt Joanie - or as so many have referred to (and I christened her) - "AJ": I was home ill with a rather bad bout of asthma when Aunt Joanie came to spend an afternoon and have dinner with us. As cards were shuffled and the score paper prepared for a rousing game of cut-throat pinochle, the paper was too narrow to allow me to put "Aunt Joanie" at the head of the column for her score - so I announced the need to abbreviate and stated, "We'll call you AJ from now on." And so it was... Ever since I was little, she called me "Diana Foo Wong" because as a "lefty" I first picked up a pencil and wrote from right to left across the paper. As I got older, she would often shorten it to just "Foo" when we spoke, and it always made me smile. I also worked with her at Penn Traffic's downtown store while I was in high school and we'd have lunch or dinner breaks together on numerous occasions; AJ and I thought PT's Swiss cheese salad with Bleu Cheese dressing was the best! Later, when I worked at the Tribune and as I prepared for my wedding, I spent many evenings (and sleepovers) with Grandma and AJ sewing flower girls' dresses on Grandma's machine, and always, always playing a few games of pinochle and watching old movies. When Jim and I (and Dannielle) were stationed in Hampton, Virginia, she had the opportunity to come with Mom and spend a couple of weekends with us. She always had a special place in her heart for Dannielle (her first great niece) and Nicholas Wade, to whom she would sing a special song in Slovak about her "Nicholai" (I can hear her singing the melody; how I wish I knew the words...) Perhaps our biggest regret was that we never got a chance to take her to a wax museum - something she always told Jim she wanted to do. Although we were unable to get back from Mexico in time for the funeral, we were blessed to have had the opportunity to spend time with Aunt Joanie this past September and October when we visited Johnstown. I have thought of her often over the past few days, remembering the many Chrsitmas Eve dinners and the flurry of activity necessary to make each year a memorable occasion. She was a woman of grace and class, and was loved by all who knew her; I know she is watching over us all. I will always hold her precious in my heart...

I was deeply saddened to recently hear of Joanie's passing. Most of my memories of her are tied to my family's vacations (when we came up from Texas) to visit Uncle Frank and Aunt Freda's place when I was a young boy. I remember Uncle Frank as a quiet, firm man with strong hands. My boyhood impression of Aunt Freda was that she was the heart of the family, always smiling, always welcoming and full of love... which usually manifested itself with great food (chicken paprikash comes to mind). I remember Joanie and her sisters as being very much like their Mom, giving freely with big hugs and kisses whenever we were in town. Regrettably, as things often happen in life, I lost touch as I grew older and it wasn't until many years later that I saw Joanie again. My wife and I had come to Johnstown to attend my Grandmother's (my Mom's Mom) funeral. It was after the service, she had called me aside to offer her condolences. How she recognized me after so many decades, I'll never know, but she did. It struck me how much she reminded me of her Mom, not only in appearance, but also in the warmth, affection and kind words she expressed to me. She will be missed. My deepest condolences and prayers go out to all family and friends. God Bless.

Aunt Joanie was a very special person to me and many other family and friends. She was full of joy and wisdom. I always loved to come up to Johnstown and hang out with her and Grandma. Now they are together once again, forever. May they rest in peace.

Please accept my deepest sympathies. I remember Joan as a happy person with the most beautiful complexion. Her face always seemed to light up when you spoke to her.

"Is that Frannie Cassidy" question asked as soon as you came through the kitchen door at 41 "D" street,by Joan. When I had the lead in South Pacific, Joan would love to practice singing, and was like an encyclopedia with the myriad of knowledge that she had of all things...not one thing ever held her back. Dressed to the "nines" always. A smile to be shared, showing all that she cared. I would sneak her some goodies when no one else knew,but that was okay. Playing pinochle until our eyes would close (well Freida Maguch would close hers...being interested in tales of every party and get together with friends, listening to all our memories of Carol and myself talking and Joan knowing all about "the rest of the story" Joan had pain that belonged to no one but herself...she only wanted to be happy and joyous when you were around. There is a void, but all in the Balazik family now have their own angel...as I am sure she is organizing a choir,or setting up a fundraiser for bigger rainbows in the sky. Wonderful person,wonderful friend. I am glad she is in my heart.love and peace to all...frannie cassidy findley

Joanie was a wonderful person and a friend to all. She made you feel welcome and loved whether you were family, friend or stranger. She may be gone from this life but her spirit will live on in the hearts of many. We feel like we were part of Joanie's extended family and loved her very much.

My Aunt Joannie,how I will miss her. She was there from the start in my life and was always ready with wise words and blessed comfort. To her, I am "Teflona" :). She showed us many a wonderful time and gave lots of genuine love to each of us. She will never be forgotten and I myself look forward to seeing her in heaven. I thank GOD we were able to see her this past summer. She was amazingly happy and loved seeing Anthony and Amanda. They sorely miss her as well. May she rest in peace and be forever in GOD's loving embrace. Amen.
Stevie "Teffi" Lencki
Jackson, GA

Joanie and I had a close relationship. Closer than cousins, I'd like to think almost sisters. There were too many good times to tell and definetly no bad ones. We were the Three Muskateers doing our little travels, Joanie, me and Shelli, followed by beach vacations when I married George and had Jason and Travis. I sometimes called her "Angel Baby" when she preached to me and I needed it.....she always seemed to bring me back to reality. Who will do it now? Some how, some way I think it will still be "Angel Baby"!

Oh how I do remember the parties that Jason and I used to play at her house. All I wanted to do was play in that ball field right next door! And the hedges, oh the hedges that we used to cut, I swore when I did that job that I would never own a house with hedges! But I could never forget that smile above all thats what I'll remember, her kind smile. I wish I could teach that to my boys but it is such an inherent thing, it was her nature. And I'll miss her laugh. Rest in peace.

Joanie was my sister and my friend. We had many good times and especially enjoyed our own unique game of Scrabble. She was one of a kind and we loved her dearly. She is now free of pain and with Mom et al. If they can play pinochle up there, you can bet they will. She is physically gone from here, but her memories and her spirit will live on for all who knew her. God give her eternal rest.

I am the eldest grandchild and Aunt Joanie's first niece. My memories of her are long and deep. I enjoyed early years with her and Uncle Wade in Chicago as a toddler, and when I was 6 years old, she took me back on the train to Chicago to visit everyone--Jimmy, Ricky, Jackie, Lil. We went to the lake, too. I was so proud to be with her, as it was clear everyone enjoyed her company and loved her. My memories also include the family travels and vacations she enjoyed with us, as well as all the holidays and their attendant preparations. Aunt Joanie is responsible for my love of fine tableware and entertaining--silver, china, linens, flower arrangements. What Grandma taught me about cooking and baking, Aunt Joanie supplemented with instruction on ironing and folding napkins, choosing napkin rings, polishing silver, handwashing crystal, and arranging flowers. Once I was married, I had the opportunity on seveeral occasions to entertain AJ at my home with a lovely table. I still recall her face, as she sat down to her china place setting with cloth napkin, fresh flowers artfully arranged, and a placecard with her name and seasonal hand-made designs on it. She beamed! She knew--and I confimed to her and the other guests--that she was my mentor for these talents. She LOVED that! She was a lady, a charmer, an aunt, a mentor, a confidante, and an "extra" mother. She was a "bon vivant." It pleased me very much that she loved Roark immediately and they shared many an odd conversation about old movies and actors and actresses, as well as classical literature. She came to spend the weekend with us early in our marriage, bearing a copy of "Casablanca." I never hear the theme or even an advertisement for the movie that I don't think of her. And, yes, as life would have it, we even shared the same physical malady these past few years. I am grateful for who she will always be in my life. I am grateful for my faith that reminds me that she has peace and relief from her physical suffering now. I love you, Aunt Joanie. And I am grateful that I was given the gift of this wonderful, large, loving family to teach me, touch me, and surround me all my life. I love life because I have known all of you, and especially Aunt Joanie. You taught me to live the ordinary life in an extraordinary way!

My sister Joan
"The Brain," they say
Aaah - that explains that hint of grey
The eldest one, but young at heart
My refuge and my counterpart.

My beloved sister helped me write a poem about my 5 sisters way back in 1969. She was indeed my refuge and my counterpart.

I loved my Aunt Joan very much. As did Suzanne and Lindsey. We were amazed when she could recite Hamlet's soliloquy on command. All the memories of visits to 41 D St. will live on in all of us forever. Through all her pain and discomfort she always remained positive. She was always there for me, like a second mother. I miss her terribly.

Aunt Joanie was my aunt and my God-mother. I was her first nephew and her first God-child. I enjoyed all of the wonderful times that we had together over the years. The vacations that she went on with us and the numerous hands of pinochle that we enjoyed as both partners and opponents. I miss you AJ or as I used to call her "old AJ". My kids enjoyed the times with her when we lived close by and Erin relied on her for family recipes that grandma had shared with us for years. A week before her passing I made a pot of the infamous bunky soup and was quite proud when she called to say that she was giving me the official seal of approval be cause it was just like Grandma's.

Aunt Joannie was also my Godmother.
But she was much more! She was my aunt, a great friend and a co-worker to me; we worked together at Penn Traffic. So many of my wonderful childhood memories are because of AJ. I will miss her, but my memories will keep her close in my heart.

Joannie, Joan, AJ -- for all who were blessed to have known her, we knew love and laughter! So many fond memories will be in our hearts forever ...... and those will surely provide comfort in the loss!

Joan Reed was not only an Aunt and Godmother to me, but a wonderful and genuine human being. She will be missed greatly, but her fine words of wisdom will live on forever..I will never forget this woman!

Aunt Joanie was a woman with compassion and very loving. She was a funny person with little quirks that meant so much to me. I was very fortunate to have lived with her for a while as a child where she took care of me and my sister, Stephanie. The memories of those days and on will never be forgotten. Believe it or not, I can still hear her laughter. I am so happy that me and the boys got to see her this past summer. She, of course, spun her tales about each one of us as children. She loved telling her stories! They will be in our hearts forever. I wish I could have been there to pay my last respects. God Bless her! Yes, now, she is with Grandma and is free from all the pain she had to endure. She will be sorely missed! With love in our hearts, Julie, Matthew and Spencer

My deepest sympathies to each of you. Joannie was a lovely person.
May she rest in peace.

Aunt Joan was an incredibly gracious woman. I have thought about her so much over my years abroad and wish I could have been there to spend more time with her over the years and wish I could have made it back to pay my last respects. She is with Grandma now and in a much better place. She will truly be missed…but never forgotten!!

To Joan's family,
I worked with Joan for years at the YMCA. She was not only brilliant. She was compassionate and caring. She was my confidant throughout the years. I could never explain how much I loved her and will miss her. It is a void that never will be filled.