Joan Elaine Baclawski
In Loving Memory of Joan Elaine Baclawski
Joan Elaine Baclawski, 66, passed away on September 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of spirit, curiosity, and love. Born on November 17, 1958, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Joseph and Joyce Baclawski, Joan is survived by her sons, Steven and Maxwell Fazekas; Steven’s wife, Jori; her grandchildren, Emmitt (6) and Kelsey (3); her brother Jim Baclawski and his wife Becky; her niece and nephews, Diana, John, and James; and many friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Joan was devoted to her sons, Steven and Maxwell, her pride and joy. She shared nearly 20 years with her horse, Folly, whose companionship brought her comfort and peace. Dogs were also a constant in her life, especially Diva, her loyal friend. Joan loved French cooking and treasured the time she spent abroad. She found happiness outdoors, in books, and in her lifelong love of learning.
Joan embraced spirituality, folklore, and a touch of magic, sharing stories, insights, and laughter with all who knew her. She made friends across all walks of life, and many would say she collected friends the way some collect books—treasured, cared for, and never forgotten.
She will be deeply missed.
Joan’s wishes were to be cremated. A celebration of her life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her memory by spending time in nature, reading a good book, cooking something delicious, or embracing a little whimsy in your day—
just as Joan would have wanted.
Joan had an energy and spirit unlike anyone I’ve ever met. Our world needs more people like Joan. I will miss her dearly. Much love to her and her loved ones.
Joan, sweet amazing Joan. You were a vivacious free spirit with a zest for adventure. I will miss hearing your bracelets clicking and clogs a clunking. I love and miss you dear Joan. 💕
You always knew where Joanie stood on something. She brought a smile to our shop – and man, did that lady love her incense! We’ll miss her and are sending much love to her family at this time. Happy Trails, Joanie. Walk on.
First met Joan in a class at Pathways years ago and from there it grew into a delightful friendship. Great memories of fun gatherings at each other’s houses, more classes and study groups, spirited discussions of esoterica that inspired us all to want to learn more. Smart, funny, snarky, and so generous. (I still have one of her paintings hanging over my bed!) She was so proud of you boys, too. Talked about you all the time. ❤️ We lost touch a bit when I moved to Columbia and I missed her. Was heartbroken to learn of her passing. Please let us know about the plans for celebrating her life. She had her challenges, as so many do, but she touched so many lives in positive ways despite that. She is and will be missed.
Hi Everyone,
This is Max. Thank you for the kind words.
The Celebration of Life will be on:
Saturday, October 11th from 2-7 PM in St. Louis, Missouri (Webster Groves)
(Fly into St. Louis Lambert International Airport. Airport Code = STL)
We wanted to post the date and time officially so everyone is aware and can plan accordingly. Please reach out directly to Steve or I, if you require any further details.
Thanks,
Max
We look forward to celebrating our mother’s life and seeing everyone soon!
Dear Joan,
I hope you are on a beautiful, new adventure of love and peace. I have so many wonderful memories of growing up together in Fort Wayne – running through sprinklers, swimming at Pocahontas Pool, riding horses through Foster Park, having sleepovers, and being library nerds who loved learning! We got into a little mischief as teenagers, but boy did we know how to have fun! I know your life wasn’t always easy, but you always managed to find joy – in your boys, your friendships, your love of horses and dogs, and your openness to new experiences. I imagine you meeting Folly, your mom and dad and all those who have gone before you for a loving reunion filled with happiness and hugs! Love you my friend.
So sorry for the loss of your Mom. Max, where will the memorial be held for Joan? Hugs to both you and Steven…
Joan and I were riding buddies early on at Kraus Farms. We shared birthday celebrations together and dinners. Joan was alot of fun. Then our lives moved in different directions and we lost touch with each other. So sorry for the loss of your mother. I have some great memories of Joan and I know you must too.