Joan Hachat

CUYAHOGA FALLS - The world is considerably sadder today because of the loss of our beloved mother, grandmother and Gigi. She passed away on October 15th, 2013, after a full and fruitful life of 92 years. Born in Nottingham, England on September 29th 1921, she survived World War II and actually volunteered for the local Fire Brigade, climbing on the roofs of chemical factories to remove fire bombs. She studied ballet at the Royal Academy of Dance and performed at the Royal Theater in Nottingham. She met her future husband, Lloyd Hachat an Air Force gunner on a train ride to Bedford, England. After being married in England, she travelled to America by herself at the age of 25, on the Bridgeport, known as the "War Brides" Ship, arriving in Staten Island on the 4th of July, 1946.
But that was only part of her amazing journey. She then climbed on a train travelling to Morgantown, West Virginia where she was reunited with her husband. They eventually moved to the greater Akron area, where she raised five wonderful children.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, William and Winifred Seller, husband, Marcel Lloyd Hachat, sister, Olive Blagden and daughter-in-law, Nancy Hachat.

Joan is survived by her loving children, Simone, (Pete) Walker, Lloyd Hachat, Douglas, (Amy) Hachat, Robin (Dan) Leonino and Monique (Jerry) Andrea, sister, Eileen (William) Cudd. She was "the best grandma and step-grandma" to 15 extraordinary grandchildren and great grandmother to 26 unique great grandchildren. Along with numerous nieces and nephews, Joan leaves behind her oldest and dearest friend, Edna Truby. Let us not forget her furry companion Angel.

To really know Joan you just needed to read her poetry, sit with her and listen to her stories. She was a wonderful story teller and just to have the opportunity to spend a few minutes chatting with her would brighten your day. An avid reader averaging 2-3 books a week, Joan was ahead of her time.

Joan loved everyone, never prejudging those she met. She would enjoy getting to know and love them for the individuals they were. Everyone's life she touched was better for knowing her; even the medical staff who helped her near the end asked Joan if she would "adopt them" into her family. She always made you feel like you were her favorite, even though she played no favorites. We will all miss her terribly, but her loving legacy will help us all realize how blessed we have been to have her in our lives for so many years.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be conducted on Friday, October 18th, 2013, 11:00am at St. Johns Episcopal Church 2220 Second Street on the corner of Second Street and Portage Trail in Cuyahoga Falls.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Joan Hachat to The Nancy Friedt Hachat Nursing Scholarship Fund, or money or clothing to Marian's Closet, 154 East Street, Wadsworth, OH 44281. Thank you to Summa Healthcare, Hospice and Anna's Home Healthcare. Services entrusted to Clifford-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 330-928-2147.

Please click on this link to view her Tribute Video: http://videos.lifetributes.com/434155