Born on January 26, 1940, in Fort Wayne, Joan was the beloved daughter of Paul and Cecelia Kennedy. She graduated from Central Catholic High School in Fort Wayne. Shortly after graduating from high school, Joan set out for fun and adventure by moving to Los Angeles. That is where she met the love of her life, Gary Greene. Joan eventually left California and Gary chased his bride-to-be back to Fort Wayne. Gary and Joan were married on July 19th, 1969, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Fort Wayne.
On their 50th wedding anniversary, they renewed their wedding vows at St. Patrick Catholic Church Arcola with Rev. Cyril Fernandes officiating. They were married for 54 years, before Gary passed away in 2024.
After raising four children, Joan built a career as a dedicated Customer Service Representative with North American Van Lines, where she worked for 14 years before retiring in 2002.
Joan’s true legacy was the deep love she had for her family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, she was a constant source of kindness, strength, and laughter. She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren—playing board games, reading stories, and baking her famous brownies. She was always happiest surrounded by family.
Although many knew Joan as a quiet person, those closest to her knew she loved to chat and tell stories for hours, sharing laughter and warmth with those around her.
She lived a life of faith and generosity, giving back to her community through volunteer. Joan was a devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Arcola, IN.
A true Hoosier at heart, Joan was an avid fan of Indiana basketball, cheering passionately for her team. Her love for sports was matched only by the pride she felt for her children and grandchildren.
Joan is survived by her children: Kelly Hansan of Fisher, IN; Misty (David) Calder of San Clemente, CA; Shawn (Rebecca) Greene of Fort Wayne, IN; and Shannon (Brian) Olson of Wilton, CT. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Sydney Calder (16), Brady Calder (10), Kendall Greene (5), Piper Olson (10) and Jack Olson (8).
She leaves behind her loving siblings: Margaret Martin, Patrick (Denise) Kennedy, Eileen (John) Schumacher, James (Cindy) Kennedy, Carolyn (Phil) Ransom, and Melvin (Cindy Berning) Kennedy.
She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 54 years, Gary Lowell Greene; her son-in-law Paul Hansan; and siblings Karen Kennedy, Michael Kennedy, Rosemary Vachon, Sheila Banks, Kevin Kennedy, Susanne Stark, Kathleen Chapla, and Flynn Kennedy.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 am Friday, May 2, 2025, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 12305 Arcola Road Arcola, IN, with visitation one hour prior. Committal and Burial will immediately follow at Highland Park Cemetery. All are encouraged to attend a luncheon at St. Patrick Catholic Church Arcola after the burial, to honor and celebrate Joan’s life.
Friends may also call from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm – 8 pm on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at D.O. McComb and Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, 8325 Covington Road, Fort Wayne, IN. Rosary will be recited 7:30 pm on Thursday and all are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Salvation Army, Fort Wayne Rescue Mission, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Joan’s family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at StoryPoint West for their compassion and care. Her gentle spirit and unwavering love will be missed by all who knew her.
