Joan Ann Gruber-Gude-Blake

Born to Thelma Barkman Gruber and William Gruber on October 24, 1929. Joan graduated from Louisville Girls High School, class of 1947. She was a member of Sts. Simon and Jude and Incarnation Catholic Churches where she was a Eucharist Minister. Joan enjoyed many clubs especially the Senior Clubs. Being a devout Catholic, she lived her faith by loving everyone she met with hugs, smiles and laughter. Her joy for life was contagious. In 2025 she was given a Gold Standard Award for Aging.

She is predeceased by her parents; sister Sharon Brady; husbands Kenneth Gude and James Blake, Jr.; grandsons William Lynch and Benjamin Gude.

Survivors include sister Sue Shuck; children Cheri Schneider (William), Michael Gude (Suzanne), David Blake (Rose) and Diane Napper. She was also blessed with 17 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren.

The visitation will be Monday, Feb.2 from 12:00-8:00 at Heady-Hardy Funeral Home 7710 Dixie Hwy. Funeral will be 10:00 Tuesday at Incarnation Church 2229 Lower Hunters Trace. Burial following at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Mass of the Air or Dare to Care.

“As I age, I dare to follow my dreams, to have faith, love, joy and peace for ourselves, for our country and our world.”