Joan Louise Yatalese

Joan Louise Yatalese, 94, of Battle Creek, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, July 20, 2025. She was born June 24, 1931, in Jackson, Michigan, the daughter of Andrew L. and Emogene Agnes (Collins) Freemire, Sr. Joan (pronounced Joanne) was married to Donald Yatalese on May 5th, 1948. They lived in the same home for sixty-nine years. Joan loved flowers, working in her yard, playing cards, watching game shows, and drinking Ginger Ale. She also enjoyed shopping at thrift stores and collecting angels. She cherished her family and hugs above all. Joan was preceded in death by her husband Donald, daughter Bonnie Hite, two sisters: Virginia Vince and Helen Barbree, and her brother: Lowell Freemire. She is survived by four daughters: Helen (Myron) Fast, Jean (James) Davis, Cindy (Glen) Wood, and Robin (Ron) Garberick; nine grandchildren: Joe (Shelly) Fast, Mark (Christy) Fast, Kim Huffman, James (Angie) Davis, Denny (Jenny) Hite, Terrance (Christy) Wood, Christopher (Monikya) Wood, Ben (Laura) Garberick, and Scott (Stacy) Garberick; many great grandchildren; two stepbrothers: Andrew Freemire, Jr. and David Freemire; and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at 12:00 pm. Arrangements by Richard A. Henry Funeral Home and Cremation Services. www.henryfuneralhome.org