Mary Joan Bradtmueller

Mary Joan Bradtmueller, 82, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2023, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 18, 1941, in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Edmund and Mary Francis (Walsh) Keane. Joan was the eldest of eight siblings.

Joan's journey through life was marked by resilience, love, and her overwhelming generosity. She began her education at Notre Dame High School in St. Louis, Missouri, and after her family relocated to Fort Wayne, Indiana, she met her husband, Karl Bradtmueller. Together, they created many memories while raising their children.

For over three decades, Joan dedicated herself to the Phelps Dodge Sales Company in Fort Wayne. Beyond her professional life, Joan was a woman of many passions. She was a member of Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Church, an avid reader and enthusiastic quilter and was known for her manicured red nails.

Joan's adventurous spirit led her to explore the world with friends and family, creating cherished experiences and lasting bonds. She relished the joy of gathering with her close friends for weekly lunches and dinners, savoring both the food and the company. Additionally, Joan was a steadfast supporter of her sister's endeavors in the world of dog shows, traveling far and wide to cheer her on.

Joan's legacy lives on through her daughter, Ann Marie (Bay) Underwood of Fort Wayne, her son Jon (Jenny) Bradtmueller of Omaha, Nebraska, and her beloved grandchildren, Landen and Holden Bradtmueller. She is also survived by her siblings, Michael (Lois) Keane, Sharon (Denny) Esterline, Tim (Carol) Keane, Mary (Kevin) Osbun, Pat (Joni) Keane, Kevin (Pam) Keane, Brian (Denise) Keane, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband Karl, and a nephew.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Church, 7215 St. Joe Road, Fort Wayne, with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior. A celebration of Joan's life will immediately follow the Mass and inurnment.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorials be directed to the American Kidney Fund at 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, Maryland 20852.

In honor of Joan's love for elegance and flair, the family would be delighted if you wore your fanciest pearls or costume jewelry to her celebration of life. This small gesture would surely bring a smile to her face, as we remember a remarkable woman who touched our lives with her warmth, grace, and boundless love. Joan will forever remain in our hearts.

Condolences and memories of Joan may be left online at www.HockemeyerMillerFH.com.