Feb. 20, 1944 - Feb. 3, 2013

ELKHART - Joann L. Kunkel, 68, of Elkhart, passed away Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in her residence after a courageous battle with cancer.

Joann was born Feb. 20, 1944, in Kansas to Timothy Allen and Ruth (Fetters) Cole.

She married Jack L. Kunkel Jr. on Feb. 7, 1964, in Elkhart. He survives.

Also surviving are a son, Jack L. (Keri) Kunkel III of Elkhart; a grandson, Jordan C Kunkel of Elkhart; her mother, Ruth (Fetters) Cole of Findlay, Ohio; her brother, Phil (Melinda) Cole of Findlay; and her father-in-law, Jack L. Kunkel Sr. of Elkhart.

She was preceded in death by her father, Timothy Allen Cole, and her brother, Emerson Cole.

Joann grew up in Findlay and graduated from Findlay High School. She was a lifelong member of Mount Zion United Methodist Church, Findlay.

Joann was an owner and main seamstress for JLK Inc. Interiors in Elkhart through 2008. Most recently, up until her illness, she was employed by Notre Dame as a housekeeper at the Joyce Center.

Per Joann's wishes there will be no visitation or service. A memorial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to Hospice of Elkhart, 22579 Old U.S. 20, Elkhart, IN 46516; or Mount Zion United Methodist Church, 17572 C.R. 7, Findlay, OH 45840.

Joann was a remarkable woman who will be dearly missed by all those whose lives she touched.

Tim and Deb Hileman, Parker, CO Our hearts are heavy and our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Joann was a remarkable woman and we will miss her greatly.

Bob & Donna Bila, Elkhart, IN Jack sr. we was so surprised to hear of Joann"s passing. our thoughts and prayers are with you.

liz ullery, South Bend, IN keri i am so sorry for your loss you are a strong amazing woman lean on your friends if you need to to there are many who love you and will be there for you xoxoxo

Randy and Stephanie Doncilovic, Elkhart, IN What a wonderful woman! I am so encouraged by her words to me at my Dad's passing. She stated that she would tell my Dad that I love him and I miss him lots. Rest in Peace Joann! You will be missed!

Holly Stock-Tuholski, South Bend, IN Hello Jack- Sorry to hear about your mom. She was such a nice lady- always willing to let me visit. Little did she know how much those visits helped. I enjoyed your parents so much. My sympathies.

Barb Loucks, Elkhart, IN Jack...You're mom was an incredible woman. Compassionate and Caring are the two words that come to mind followed by Nuturing, Classy, Funny and filled with a zest for life. I always loved her laugh and you can be sure that her days are only filled with it now...B

Sharon (Worsham) Windmiller, Elkhart, IN Joann was the sweetest lady. Jack, I considered both of you good friends back in the days we worked at the airport. You have my deepest sympathy on her passing.