Joanne Katherine Gahan

She was the first daughter born to James “Jim” and Margaret Mary “Mable” (Abraham) Gahan on April 15, 1938. She is predeceased by her parents; sister, Mary Jean (1957); and brother, Roger (2008). She is survived by her brothers J. Edward “Ed” (Darlene) and Michael Gahan, both of Parnell, Michigan. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews, many great nieces and nephews, and many great-great nieces and nephews.

Joanne graduated from St. Patrick’s High School in Parnell in 1956. She attended and graduated from Mercy College of Detroit (now UDM) in 1960 with a BS in Medical Technology. She later graduated from MSU with an MS (1971) and received her JD from T.M. Cooley Law School in 1980. She spent her entire professional career in the healthcare arena.

Joanne began her professional career at FDF Hospital in Grand Rapids and later was hired as a Supervisor of Blood Bank at EW Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. She worked there for 10 years before going to Ingham Medical Center (now MGL) so she could continue pursing another career. In 1980, she received her JD from T.M. Cooley Law School and then developed and directed the Department of Risk Management and Legal Services at IMC.

Joanne was a very active member of ASMT (American Society of Medical Technologists) and MSMT (Michigan Society MT). She was President of the MSMT in 1972-1973 and named Medical Technologist of the Year in 1973. She also held membership in AABB as well as the Society of Law, Medicine, and Health Care (Ethics). She was a member of the Michigan Bar, 1980-2013.

Joanne was an avid MSU fan and especially enjoyed Women’s Basketball.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at 11am at the Catholic Community of St. Jude, 801 N. Bridge St., DeWitt. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the Mass at church. Interment will be private at St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery in Parnell, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to either the Catholic Community of St. Jude, 801 N. Bridge St., DeWitt, MI 48820 or to St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 4351 Parnell Ave., Ada, MI 49301.