Joan King
Joanie to her friends, Joey to her family, left us behind on Valentine’s Day at the age of 77. A proud member of the LGBT community, she is likely celebrating her new life with her late partner Donnie Kraus playing golf on a heavenly course.
Despite communication issues due to advanced Alzheimer’s disease, Joey’s happy and loving personality was present to the end. She delighted in weekly trips to the hair stylist, truly came alive when with small children, giggled to the end and never gave up her love of Pepsi.
Joey was a life-long athlete who enjoyed softball, basketball, tennis, and golf. She especially loved participating in the Senior Olympics.
Her working career culminated at the Department of Defense as budget manager for the Black Hawk helicopter system at the St. Louis Aviation Systems Command.
She leaves behind six sisters, one brother, fourteen nieces and nephews, and sixteen great-nieces and nephews.
A private Interment will be at the Saint Philippine Cemetery.
A memorial to Joey’s life is planned for the spring. Donations to the Alzheimer’s association are appreciated.
Joey,
We’re glad you’re finally at peace, and that you’re now with Donnie, Mom & Dad, and June & Joe. Thank you for being such a wonderful big sister, sister-in-law and aunt to us. You were always fun to be with, always smiling, always willing to help everyone. Every time we hear an Elvis song, we’ll remember how much you loved “your” music, and will send you a smile. Miss you so much, big sister!
Sherri and I had the pleasure of playing golf with Joey and Donnie one time. I wish we had hit the course more often. Joey was a delight, and I’m so glad I had the pleasure of meeting her and spending time with her at family gatherings. I know that she is at peace, and enjoying her time with her family members that went before her. I loved how her obituary was written. Kudos to her sisters.
Joanie-our good friend. We’ve shared lots of laughs & conversations…vacations, golf, tennis, dinners, dancing. We’ve travelled down many roads together. Now you’re with Donnie and we hope the two of you are celebrating your reunion. Your love (for life) will live on through those of us left behind. You deserve to be at peace. We will always carry you in our hearts.
Aunt Joey I love you , my sister Ashley and my son love you. You never knew how much you helped me feel a part of this family! You went out your way to make me and my little sister Ashley feel special and that we were Pfaffs too. You showed us younger generation what it means to keep going from your love of sports and your never quit attitude. You never even gave up your smile even with the loss of your memories from a devastating disease. I am so glad that my son got to meet you. You lived a beautiful life and I am so proud to have had as you as an Aunt and I love you dearly. My heart goes out to all of my Aunts. I love you all bless you to be alright and know your Sister is in a better place and she lived she really lived her life. She did what she wanted she loved Donny she traveled she was in the Olympics she had a good life full of joy and happiness. And now she is at peace.
i miss you big sister. See you later alligator. I’m sure that I will. Love you, Jane