Joan Kean was devoted to her family and to her faith.  She was married to Tom Kean, her high school sweetheart, for more than 55 years.  She adored her six children (Laura, Tom (d.), Sharon, Fr. Brian, Lisa, and Edward), her eight grandchildren (Kristen, John, Kaitlen, Colin, Micheal, Daniel, Mark, and Elizabeth), and her two great grandchildren (Peyton and Hudson).  She was extensively involved over the years with her parish church, Mary Seat of Wisdom, where she had been a parishioner for over fifty years.  She was also involved in many civic activities.

After her children had entered college, Joan went to work as a salesperson in the transportation industry.  At different times she worked for ITOFCA and Compass.  She was very good at her job and enjoyed meeting with clients.  She was a member of the trucking association IANA.  After her retirement, Joan volunteered as a Minister of Care at Lutheran General Hospital.  She also worked part time at the Cook County Traffic Court during her retirement.  Joan was a regular at the Park Ridge Recreation Center, working out each morning at 6am.

Joan was a member of the Maine South Adult Players and directed several junior high school plays at Mary Seat of Wisdom.  She was a member of the 20 ^th Century Club and the Foundation for International Cooperation, for which she had been a board member.  Through her parish, Mary Seat of Wisdom, she participated in the Cook County Bail Bond project.  She was also involved for many years with the St. Patrick's Guild, Catholic Family Movement, and Council of Catholic Women as well as the annual Chez Paris fundraiser at her parish.

Joan enjoyed spending time with family and her many good friends.  Her good humor, optimism, and joy for life will be missed.

Visitation Sunday, Nov. 20, from 4 to 8 pm; funeral prayers Monday 9:15 am at Nelson Funeral Home, 820 W. Talcott Rd., Park Ridge. Procession to Mary Seat of Wisdom Church for 10 am Mass of Christian Burial. Interment All Saints Cemetery. For more information please call 847-823-5122.