Joan Mildred Look

We celebrate the life of Joan M. Look, who passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on October 26, 1943, Joan lived a life filled with love, laughter, and an energy that uplifted everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Joan graduated from Eastern High School in 1961. She cherished staying in touch with her classmates and loved meeting at Coral Gables in East Lansing to help plan class reunions. For decades, she also enjoyed monthly lunches and movie outings with her closest high school girlfriends - laughing, reminiscing, and continuing friendships that spanned more than 60 years.

Joan earned her Bachelor of Science in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation from Michigan State University. A proud Spartan and lifelong sports enthusiast, she loved cheering for her alma mater and supporting MSU athletics with unwavering spirit.

She began her teaching career at Dwight Rich Middle School during the 1968–1969 school year, where she championed the importance of daily physical activity for every child. In 1987, Joan embarked on a successful second career as a pharmaceutical representative with Wyeth. Her strong work ethic, competitive nature, and vibrant personality led to many accomplishments and lasting friendships with colleagues, physicians, and office staff throughout her 16-year tenure.

In retirement, Joan remained as active and energetic as ever—walking 10,000 steps a day, tending to her beloved perennial garden, and attending Jazzercise classes with friends at the Meridian Senior Center, right up until her diagnosis in early May.

Joan’s greatest pride and joy were her three daughters: Carole, Joy, and Noelle—her “Christmas girls”—who, in turn, brought her the delight of eight cherished grandchildren. As “Grandma Joan,” she became a devoted presence at Okemos High School athletic events, rarely missing a game. Her travel bag was always packed and ready for the next tournament.

Joan will be fondly remembered for her homemade strawberry birthday crepes, baklava, golden caramels, and Thanksgiving sweet potatoes and stuffing. Family traditions, like wine nights and her 80th birthday celebration in Traverse City, will remain treasured memories. So too will the laughter shared over margaritas at El Azteco.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Rose Novotny; Joe and Louise Novotny; Mary (Novotny) and Vic Egres; and Elizabeth Johnson Jancek.

Joan is survived by her daughters Carole (Andy) Brogan, Joy (Steve) Chase, and Noelle (Kris) Burak; and by her eight beloved grandchildren: Berkleigh, Callahan, and Brandel Brogan; Colten and Drayton Chase; and Anniston, Liberty, and Brett Burak. She is also survived by her aunt, Mildred Novotny; cousin, Sue Novotny; and special friends, Mark and Dorothy (Tarr) Rubin.

An informal gathering to celebrate Joan’s life will be held at Coral Gables in East Lansing on Tuesday, June 17, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. All are welcome to share memories, stories, and smiles in her honor.

Each Christmas, Joan faithfully supported the Old Newsboys charity, believing every child deserved a good pair of shoes or boots. In her memory, donations may be made to Old Newsboys of Greater Lansing at www.oldnewsboys.com or by mail.

We love you, Grandma Joan. You will forever be our shining green light.