Joan Epler

Joan Evelyn Epler, of Kihei, Maui, passed away peacefully at home on April 10, 2025, at the age of 94.

Born on September 13, 1930, in Coaldale, Pennsylvania, to Stanley and Harriet Giltner, Joan was raised in Linden, New Jersey, alongside her beloved sister Ruth (predeceased). After graduating from Linden High School in 1948, she went to work for Prudential Insurance in Newark, New Jersey, and later worked as a key punch operator for the Standard Oil Company.

Joan later moved to the island of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, where she met the love of her life, Donald Epler. The two married on October 30, 1953, in St. Thomas. Don’s work soon took them to Florida in 1956, then to O‘ahu in 1959, and finally to their forever home on Maui in 1963.

Joan was a familiar face at Liberty House, where she worked from opening day until its final close almost 30 years later—she had the clothes, jewelry and shoes to prove it. She was also a proud member of the Maui Chapter of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority and later in the Red Hat Society, where her vibrant spirit and sense of humor found a natural home.

Joan and Don were devout Lutherans and among the first families to attend Emmanuel Lutheran Church, remaining dedicated members of the congregation since its beginning. In her final years, when she was no longer able to attend in person, Joan continued to worship faithfully from home, tuning in to Sunday services virtually on the television.

She loved to play board games with friends and family and later, her caregivers. Her favorite board game was Rummikub, which she played almost daily. Her warmth and laughter filled every room she entered, and she will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and loyal friend.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Donald. She is survived by her children, Jeff and Lora; grandsons, Jonathan and Ryan; and nephew, Donald Ensslin.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many caregivers who supported Joan over the years—especially Jane and Tania—and to Hospice Maui and Nurse Susan for their compassion and care.

A celebration of life for both Joan and Don will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 520 One Street, Kahului. Light refreshments will follow.

The family kindly requests no flowers or monetary offerings. A private inurnment at Makawao Veterans Cemetery will be held at a later date. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice in Joan’s memory.