Joan Michele (nee) Ryan Croncich, 96, passed away peacefully in her sleep December 24, 2023, at Superior Residences in Clermont, FL. Born February 8, 1927 to parents Harold Ryan and Loretta Doolin Ryan in Litchfield, IL, she was predeceased by her brothers Mike Ryan, Frank Ryan, Harold (Hoot) Ryan, Bud Doolin and sister, Eileen Ryan Sheppard. She had a life filled with love, service and deep devotion to her family and God.

Joan grew up in Litchfield where she was active in her school/church activities, softball team and she often shared stories of her work at the local movie theater with best friend Mary Ellen. Upon graduation from Litchfield High School, she married Teno Michele in 1946 at the end of WWII. In 1952 they moved to Groveland, FL with their three young sons to join other family members in the area. She was a dedicated mother who was always there for her boys in their school activities and ALL their sports events, and they never missed attending church. Her hands were never idle as she expressed her creativity in all kinds of handwork especially crocheting, Christmas wreaths, ornaments and decorations which led to starting her own business named Christmas Crafts showcasing her creations. Christmas was her favorite time of the year.

After the unexpected death of Teno Michele in 1984, Joan later married Harold (Mickey) Croncich in 1991. They enjoyed many of the same interests including a life of traveling to numerous Naval Reunions across the USA, precious times with grandchildren and great-grands, watching/attending baseball games, hosting Christmas parties, playing cards and yes, some playing the "slots!" After Mickey passed away in 2013, cardmaking became her passion as she loved encouraging others with greeting cards of all kinds.

Joan will be remembered for her thoughtfulness, quick wit, concern for others, being a giver and her deep devout faith in God. She was a special lady with a charismatic personality that was contagious. She was our family's matriarch, a pillar, a strong anchor that we all could depend on and her spirit will forever be with us.

Joan was the beloved mother of three sons Roddy Michele of Ocala, Dan (Judy) Michele of Clermont, and Dennis (Phyllis) Michele (deceased), of Anchorage, AK. She will be missed by her daughters­ in-law Sheila Michele, Judy Michele, and Phyllis Michele; grandchildren, Cheri {Matt) McMurrer, Karen Michele (deceased), Lisa (Jon) Ward, Amy (Jamie) Thurston, Ryan Michele, Melanie Michele, and Melissa (Garrett) Baginski; twenty greatgrandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and step-children, Sue (Mike) Brown, Skip (Cindy) Croncich, Betty (Fred) Plummer and their children.

A Mass of Celebration will be held at 11 am, Thursday January 11, 2024 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Clermont, FL with a reception in the social hall immediately after the service. There will also be a Celebration of Life at 3 pm at Clermont Brewing Company.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Joan's memory to her favorite non-profit organization-- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org