Born to Frank and Veronica Rehling, Joan lived a life filled with love, faith, adventure, and family. She and William enjoyed traveling the world together—among all her travels, her most cherished place was the family cottage on Walpole Island, Ontario, where she found peace and happiness surrounded by nature and loved ones.
Joan’s proudest moments were those shared with her family—watching all three of her children graduate, celebrating weddings, and welcoming each new grandson and great-grandson into the world. Both she and her husband sang with their church choir. She also enjoyed square dancing, gardening, and cooking. Always filling her home with love, warmth and laughter.
Above all, Joan loved being a wife, mother, and nana. She is survived by her beloved children Mary (Herman) Masse, Barbara Rutledge (Jane Plunkett), and William P. (Mattie Denise) Rutledge. Her cherished grandchildren Robert (Pam) Masse and Steven (Melanie) Masse and her adored great grandsons Owen, Oliver and Landin. She is also survived by her sister, sister-in-law and her many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Joan’s life was a testament to love, family, and joy. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her memory will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched.
Visitation for Joan will take place on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 from 3:00 until 8:00 pm at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road in Clinton Township. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. Ephrem Catholic Church, 38900 Dodge Park Road in Sterling Heights. Friends may visit the church beginning at 10:30 am.
In honor of Joan, memorial donations are appreciated to Henry Ford Hospice, 33464 Schoenherr Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48312.
