Joan Carol Hovancsek

Joan Carol Hovancsek

April 9, 1948 – May 21, 2026

Joan C. Hovancsek, beloved wife, devoted mother, grandmother, aunt, and dear friend passed away on May 21, 2026, at St. Peter’s Hospital in Olympia, Washington. She was 78.

Born on April 9, 1948, in Cleveland, Ohio, Joan was the daughter of Andrew and Mary Alena Jencik. She grew up in Shaker Heights, Ohio and graduated from Shaker Heights High School in 1966. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from Notre Dame College of Cleveland.

Joan met Donald at a mutual friend’s wedding in the 1960’s, when she was a bridesmaid and he was a groomsman. They married in 1969. After graduation they moved to Olympia, Washington.

Don established his podiatry office, and Joan became his office manager. As a couple and individually, they become very active in the community, joining clubs and entertaining new friends. Joan and Don also joined the Friendship Force and enjoyed exchanges with people they met from other countries.

Sara, daughter, (now deceased) was born in 1977 followed by their son, Andy, in 1978. Life became very busy for Joan, still managing the office, volunteering at St Michael School, starting a small sewing business with friends, and taking care of the homefront as well.

Joan had many loves. She was an excellent seamstress and dedicated decades to designing and creating costumes for the Shakespeare programs put on by St. Michael’s fifth grade students. In addition, Joan and her stitching friends turned their talents towards a gift of beauty and compassion by smocking final gowns for babies at St. Peter’s Hospital.

Joan loved crafting, cooking, wine tasting and entertaining friends. She also enjoyed the theater, the symphony, and traveling. The hobby she enjoyed most was reading.

In the last two decades of her life, Joan adored spending time with her seven grandchildren, hearing all about their lives and watching them grow into wonderful people. She kept the extended family together, nieces, nephews, and cousins, through frequent communication and always showing a sincere interest in their lives.

Joan and Don had many adventures over their 56 years of marriage. They were both generous in every aspect and loved throwing parties at their home. Don was the love of Joan’s life. She had a positive impact on many lives and will be sorely missed. Joan is survived by her husband Donald, son Andy, sister Janet, several grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joan’s memory to St. Michael Parish School: Arts program, the American Cancer Society, or organizations she admired.

Memorial Service for

Joan C. Hovancsek

Thursday, June 25, 2026

12:00 p.m. (Pacific Time)

St. Michael Parish

1208 11th Avenue SE

Olympia, WA 98501