Joan Jarl

JARL, Mrs. Joan
Kalamazoo, MI Joan Jarl, age 86, passed away Tuesday evening, March 17, 2015 at her home in Kalamazoo. Joan was born on November 12, 1928 in South Bend, IN to Harmon and Blanche Morgan Bedford. Joan is survived by her husband Ralph and their children. Her daughter Polly Freer, her husband Scott and their children, Caity and Logan from Kalamazoo and her son David Jarl, his wife Beth, and their daughter Ellen and her husband Jake Loviska, also from Kalamazoo. Joan is also survived by multiple nieces and nephews. Joan grew up in Fort Wayne, IN. She attended Albion College, where she was an active member of the Albion chapter of Delta Gamma. She made many dear friends, many of whom she kept in contact with throughout her life. She graduated from Albion College with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. Joan worked for the Upjohn Company after graduating from college, and later as the office manager for a Northwestern Mutual Agent. Joan was married to Ralph for sixty two years. Her marriage took her to military bases, she supported her husband's businesses and career changes, and carefully tended to her family and friends. Their life was filled with dogs, exchange students, a nephew for a year, and a cottage on Lake Michigan. Joan was a member of Kalamazoo First Presbyterian Church, and an active member of the Service Club Junior League. She also volunteered regularly with Loaves and Fishes -- an activity that she shared with her grandchildren. She was an avid reader, and loved playing cards. Ralph and Joan played bridge on their first date and continued to play regularly throughout Joan's life, even when it became difficult for her to see the cards. Cremation has taken place. Private inurnment services will be held in the columbarium at Kalamazoo First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Dr. Seth Weeldreyer officiating. A memorial service will be held at 7pm on Tuesday March 24, 2015 in the KIVA of Friendship Village, 1400 N Drake Rd, with Rev Dr. David McShane officiating. Joan's family will greet guests beginning at 6pm and again following the services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, Friendship Village Greatest Needs Fund, American Diabetes Association or Kalamazoo First Presbyterian Church. Arrangements were made by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street.