Joan M. Sieper, 83, passed away on April 22, 2019 after a challenging journey with Lewy Body Dementia.
Joan was predeceased by her parents, Clarence J. and Elsie M. Moran, her brother and sister, John C. Moran and Lois Obendorf: and her loving and trusted companion of 16 years, Dusty.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years Egon, her children Darlene Wischmeyer and Kevin (Karen) Sieper; her grandchildren Jareth, Erich, and Milanne Wischmeyer, Brianna and Danielle Sieper, and her great-grandson, Aiden Wischmeyer; Her sister, Jean (Fritz) Hart; many nieces and nephews that lovingly referred to her as 'Aunt B'.
Joan loved the outdoors and could often be found sitting, swinging in the back yard – a sanctuary she referred to as her 'piece of the earth'. She loved watching and feeding the birds and squirrels. Joan would spend hours gardening and found peace and enjoyment getting her hands dirty.
Joan and her family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Dr. Marla Bruns, MD PhD (Neurologist, Rochester Regional Healthcare, Memory Care Center). Dr. Bruns and her staff offered unending support, caring words, and frequent hugs. She was a guiding light through a very difficult journey with Lewy Body.
The family would also like to thank Karen Reed and the 'Ellison Park' Staff at The Highlands of Brighton. Karen's support, status calls, and quick wit made a difficult transition much easier for everyone involved. The incredible staff quickly grew to love Joan and offered her great care. To the night staff, Joan's family offers an added thank you as we knew some nights were very long.
Joan never cared for funerals, the sadness, the awkwardness of not knowing what to say, and certainly never wanted to be the center of attention. She asked to keep things short and sweet, wanting her grandchildren by her side. To honor her wishes, the family will be holding a small private ceremony. It was Joan's wish to be cremated and buried with her mother, who was her lifelong friend. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Rochester, NY.
'A good parent gives us the greatest gift one person can give another – time.' (SWG) Even after a lifetime of time, we always want more but that is what makes it so precious. The time becomes memories that carry on… We will miss you, Oma!
In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (https://www.lbda.org/donate)
Lewy body dementia is a progressive brain disease that causes changes in memory, thinking, movement and behavior. Lewy body dementia often is used as an umbrella term for two related conditions: Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. The most common is Alzheimer's, but LBD is the second most common type of progressive dementia.