Joan Diane Rich

Joan Diane Rich, age 74, of Wixom, died Monday, March 16, 2020 surrounded by her family. Left to cherish her memory are her three sons: James Ira Rich, Jr., Matthew (Patricia) Rich, and Jonathan (Lesley) Rich; her five grandchildren: Robert Rich, Jessica (Adam) VanDeWater, Jessica (Travis) Higley, Junette Rich, and Amanda Rich; two great-grandchildren: Atarra Rich and Ryan Anthony Hollingsworth Jr; her sister, Beth (Jim) Smith; and one great-grandchild on the way!

Joan was born April 24, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Edward and Frieda (Hermann) Schultz. She and James Rich, Sr. were married on November 25, 1964, and shared twenty-six wonderful years together until his death on April 12, 1991. Joan worked as the Chapter Administrator for Mothers against Drunk Driving (M.A.D.D.) of Oakland County for five years. After her time with M.A.D.D., Joan went on to work as the Senior Mobility Program Director for the Traffic Improvement Association of Oakland County for ten years, where she facilitated educational programs and resources about safe driving for senior citizens. She retired in 2010. Joan was also an active congregation member at Peace Lutheran Church in Waterford for over fifteen years.

In her free time, Joan enjoyed gardening and Traveling. She has very fond memories of her travels to Alaska, where she even swam in the Arctic Ocean. Joan was also a muscle car enthusiast, and loved to attend the Woodward Avenue Dream Cruise every summer. Above all though, Joan loved to spend time with her family and friends; especially her grandchildren! She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Frieda; her husband, James, Sr.; and her sister, Eunice Mandilk.

Those desiring may consider making memorial contributions in Joan’s name to Peace Lutheran Church.