Joan Marie Engvall

Joan Marie Engvall; passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026; cherished wife of the late Gerald K. Engvall; loving mother of Jeffrey (Darlene) Engvall and Jan (Pete) Ribando; devoted grandma of Lauren (Carl) Peters, Krista (Zach) Serven and Jarred (Stephanie) Engvall; sister of Vicky (nee, Snyder) and the late Diane Wilson; also, beloved aunt and thoughtful friend of many.


Joan was a woman of remarkable resilience, curiosity and wit. She loved to learn and valued education deeply. She took great pride in the accomplishments of her family and always encouraged us to pursue education, embrace opportunities and continue learning throughout our lives.

Joan had a gift for making friends wherever she went. Through Bible study, book clubs, travel and wherever she lived, she formed friendships across generations, sharing stories and making people laugh along the way. She also believed deeply in remembering the sacrifices and accomplishments of those who came before her, particularly the often-overlooked women of the greatest generation.

Her faith and her belief in the love, displayed through sacrifice, remained important throughout her life. Reflecting on the loss of her Uncle Gill during World War II, Joan connected his service with her faith and left a simple reminder: “Sing Jesus Loves Me" when you feel alone and read John 3:16.”

Joan faced life’s challenges with determination. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s and later losing her husband Jerry to a battle with cancer, she continued to embrace life—traveling abroad, taking bus tours, seeking new experiences and forging new friendships. She was tough, sometimes stubborn, quick to laugh at herself, and rarely willing to let her diagnosis define her life.

In the end, Joan remained surrounded by the community she’d built and the people she loved. Her family and friends will remember her strength and independence, her stories and laughter, and above all, the example she set for fully living through all that life may bring."


Family and friends are invited to meet at Trinity Lutheran Church, 405 Rush Street, Roselle, IL 60172 on Thursday, September 24, 2026. Memorial Visitation will begin at 10:00 A.M. until time of Memorial Service at 11:00 A.M. A luncheon will follow the services at:

Chandlers
401 N Roselle Road
Schaumburg, IL 60194

Lunch will be served at 1:00 P.M.


In lieu of flowers donations to The Parkinson's Foundation (parkinsons.org) or Trinity Lutheran Church would be appreciated.