Joan M. Bilek

Joan M. Minarik Bilek, 82 of Endicott, NY, passed away peacefully Thursday August 28, 2025, at Mercy House of the Southern Tier. She was born May 21, 1943, in Binghamton, NY, and lived a full life of love, catholic faith and caring for others. She was married to the late Joseph Bilek of Endicott, and they shared 53 wonderful years.

Joan was also predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Mary Onufer Minarik of Binghamton, NY, and her infant daughter, Mary Elizabeth Bilek of Endicott, NY; her daughter, Christine Bilek Smith; her nephews, Robert and Richard Simpson. She is survived by her son, Joseph J. Bilek, Jr. (Catherine) of Endicott; her daughter, Carol Lewis (Gary) of Endwell; two beautiful granddaughters, Hannah and Bethany Bilek of Endicott; two sisters, Karen Chernega (Frank) and Josepha M. Snyder (Gareth), both of Endicott; her brother-in-law, David Bilek; her sister-in-law, Hermina Simpson Garcia; two nephews, Frank and Nick Chernega; her niece, Kimberly Sutton Fraser; her great niece and great nephew, Emily and Frank Chernega.

Joan was a 1961 graduate of Binghamton Central High School and after graduation started her working career at Broome County Teachers Federal Credit Union. After raising her family, she attended BOCES where she earned a certificate in Nurse's Aide. She worked as a Nurse's Aide and Medical Records Unit Secretary at Absolute Care for many years until her retirement. Joan was devoted to her career in caring for others and supporting families. Joan was also a longtime member of St. Joseph's Church in Endicott, NY.

When Joan was young, she enjoyed swimming at the 1st Ward Pool and doing puzzles and crafts during the holidays with her sisters. She loved cooking Holupki, Paska and Mushroom Soup. For the past 7 years Joan was a resident of James G. Johnston Nursing facility in Johnson City where she made many friends. While there she enjoyed spending time playing Bingo, cards and doing crafts. She enjoyed the many concerts they had there for the residents. The family would like to thank the staff at JGJ for their compassionate care.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday September 2nd at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph's Church 207 Hayes Ave. Endicott, NY. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. The family will receive friends at St. Joseph's Church on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until time of Mass at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Mercy House 212 N. McKinley Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.