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Joan Zink Obituary
Born May 10, 1942, in Salamanca, she was the daughter of Earl and Lucille Piuder Zink.
Joan was a 1959 graduate of Allegany Central School and began working at the former First National Bank as a bookkeeper and after its merger in Olean until 1966.
She began a long career as an administrative assistant at St. Bonaventure University, first for the vice president, and later for the university president, retiring in 2008. She served in that capacity for seven university presidents and always enjoyed the experience of working side by side with the friars.
She was a member of the former St. John the Baptist Church in Vandalia, and more recently of St. Bonaventure Church.
She loved and enjoyed times spent with her family as well as with her pets over the years.
She is survived by a sister, Sharon Friel; nieces and nephews, John (Michelle) Zink, Jeffrey Zink, Teresa Zink, James (Nichole) Zink, Lisa Fries and Daniel (Kelly) Friel; and many great nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by a brother, David Zink in 1987.
Visitation will be private for family. Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Monday (Oct. 20, 2025) at St. Bonaventure Church. Pastor Chris Emminger will be the celebrant. Burial will follow next to her parents in St. Bonaventure Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to H. Bernice Kinnear Scholarship Fund or the Cattaraugus County SPCA, 2944 Olean-Hinsdale Rd., Olean, NY 14760 (https://spcacattco.org/).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joan Zink
Brian Fries
October 18, 2025
One of the best people I ever met. She was there to encourage me at one of the lowest times of my life. This world will be less with out her.
Ashley
October 17, 2025
I have known Joan for 18 years because my husband introduced me to her. She was one of the best people I knew. My daughter called her grandma Joan. She was very loved. We are going to miss her so much.
Sandra L Grey
October 17, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers to her family! Joan was a wonderful lady and will be missed. Jon and Sandy Grey
Leigh Simone
October 17, 2025
Joan was always such a delight. She was kind, professional and caring. A true example of the Bonaventure spirit
Love, Glenna
October 17, 2025
Sharon, I am so very sorry for the loss of your precious sister Joan. May your beautiful memories help to heal the pain in your heart.
Kathy Boyd
October 16, 2025
My sympathies to her family. Joanie was a beautiful woman that gave her life to St. Bonaventure. Always a pleasure to work with. RIP
Darla Freaney
October 16, 2025
My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family and friends. I worked with Joannie and she was a dedicated employee and the nicest lady. Thoughts are with all.
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