Joan L. Vale (nee Maykut), age 69, of Middleburg Heights, passed away on March 6, 2023. A beacon of light, of joy and of generosity, she was the center of her family and a friend to all who crossed her path. If you knew her, you loved her! She will be remembered lovingly and lastingly by her husband, David; children, Alycia (Steve) Esson, David Vale and Katie (Anthony) Castrovince; grandchildren, Ella, Lily and Sam Castrovince and Chase Esson; sister Donna (David) Flebbe and brothers John (Mary), Dennis (Christine) and Phillip Maykut. She joined her father John, mother Dorothy, and grandson James in Heaven.
Joni was a retired bank teller with a strong work ethic, a quick (and sometimes accidental) wit and an appreciation for the finer things in life. She loved tea (with a treat), going to church, walks, traveling, fancy hotels, board games (Ticket to Ride), and of course having tea and hot chocolate parties and playing freeze tag and Barbies with the kids! She was a fantastic cook, always looking for the next recipe to master and share with her loved ones and soliciting requests for family dinners. For birthdays, holidays, baby showers, the Oscars, the Kentucky Derby and countless other occasions, she was a prodigious party planner, creatively coming up with themes and the food and décor to match. When Joni walked in the room, you were immediately in a good mood. Her warm smile, peppy and positive attitude, and infectious energy were contagious. Most importantly, she was the definition of devotion as a Mom and Grandma, with a love that knew no bounds.
Her family will receive friends at St. Joseph Catholic Church (12700 Pearl Road, Strongsville, OH) on Monday, March 13, from 9 to 10 a.m. Mass will begin at 10 a.m., followed by Tea & Treats to celebrate the Best Mom Ever! Dress in something light and happy to honor the brightness she brought into the world. Instead of flowers (which she did love (except for carnations)), please consider making a donation in her memory to one of her favorite charities: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital CLICK HERE! or Operation Smile CLICK HERE! .