Obituary of Joan Patricia St. Amand

Joan Patricia St. Amand

August 30, 1956 – April 17, 2026

Beloved sister, aunt, and friend.

Joan St. Amand was born in Detroit to Lloyd and Mary St. Amand, the youngest of five siblings. She is survived by brother Robert (Mary) St. Amand, sisters Marilyn St. Amand and Phyllis (John) Rini, and preceded in death by brother Charles (Shirley) St. Amand Sr. She is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews and 12 grand nieces and nephews. One of Joan’s greatest joys was the time she spent with her large family, who remember her as someone always ready to lend a hand with any problem, from home repair to career advice.

Joan graduated from Holy Redeemer High School in Detroit and from the University of Michigan, where she earned Masters degrees in Industrial Engineering and in Manufacturing Systems. She worked for decades in the automotive industry, first at General Motors and then for 32 years at Ford Motor Company, from which she recently retired as an Information Technology Manager.

Joan was an avid and expert quilter, loved her Mah Jongg groups at Bridgewater and Canton, and was an active participant in her Bridgewater HOA committees. She loved animals, especially horses and a series of faithful dogs. An avid traveler, Joan organized trips to China, Australia, and Europe, as well as many intrepid cruises. For many years Joan owned a cottage on Rush Lake, where her family and friends gathered every summer. She also loved Florida and spent winters following her retirement at her home in Winter Haven.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Brownstown Animal Shelter, where Joan often volunteered, 23700 Lillian St., Brownstown, MI 48183.

Visitation will take place at Molnar Funeral Home Brownstown on Saturday May 2 from 2-8pm. There will be a brief remembrance gathering at 4pm; all are welcome.