Joann T. Athey

Joann T. Athey was born February 16, 1923 in Hartford, Michigan and passed away suddenly at the age of 91, on July 6, 2014 at her home in Portage. She was the daughter of Gaylord and Grace (Johns) Thompson.

Joann grew up in Hartford, graduated from Hartford High School, received her undergraduate degree after attending Albion College and Michigan State University, and later received a master's degree in Biology from WMU. She taught 5th grade for many years at Milham and Angling Road Elementary Schools in Portage, and biology at KVCC. Her true loves were Botany, science, and the natural outdoors, the love of which she instilled in her children. Joann was active in the Michigan Botanical Club, The Kalamazoo Garden Club, and the Michigan Audubon Society.

She gained admittance to the Daughters of the American Revolution several years ago, after tracing her family ancestry to the early Americas. Joann was a dedicated mother, and no sacrifice was too great when it came to her children.

Over the past decade Joann wintered in Bahia de Kino, Sonora, Mexico. She amazed her family and friends by driving across country, on her own, to travel there. She valued her independence, and remained so to the end. She developed many cherished friendships while in Kino, and pursued her love of nature there. She greatly enjoyed engaging the native Mexican populace, and supported several programs that assisted them.

As to Joann's wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal services will be held. A private family gathering to celebrate Joann's life will take place at a later date.

Joann is survived by her two children, Gayl Dennany of Kalamazoo and Roger (Susan Butler) Athey of Scottsdale, Arizona, two grandchildren, Charles Dennany Jr. of Allegan, and Jessica Athey of Scottsdale, Arizona, a sister, Gloria Morris, of Portage, and three nieces Karen Belinger, Sandra Ackerman , and Nancy Ulanski.

The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford is assisting the family. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so on our website at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com. Donations to the Michigan BotanicalClub can be made in lieu of flowers.