Joan Frances Brinkmann, 88, of Martinsville peacefully entered her eternal life on September 18, 2019, surrounded by her family. She was born on July 28, 1931, to the late Curtis and Frances (Koehler) Wray.
Joan graduated from Warren Central High School in 1949, where she won several awards for her secretarial skills. She worked at Eli Lilly after graduation until her marriage to John Brinkmann in 1952. Joan returned to work in 1965 when all four of the children were in school. She worked at Indus Tire & Wheel (Carlisle Corporation) as an executive secretary until 1991 and for several years following her retirement, she worked for her oldest son.
Joan enjoyed bowling, but her real love was playing cards. She especially loved euchre, and played whenever she could, even after entering rehab and assisted living facilities. Joan also loved sports, and thoroughly enjoyed attending the many sports her grandchildren played. She was limited to attending her great-grandchildren’s games, but never failed to ask about them and enjoyed the recaps and pictures.
She is survived by her children, Kathy (Bill) Cook of Martinsville, Curt Brinkmann (fiance, Treva Bergman) of Martinsville, and Kenny (Trena) Brinkmann of Indianapolis; grandchildren, Ryan Cook, Leann Cook, Chris Brinkmann, Ben Brinkmann, Seth Brinkmann, Sarah Brinkmann, Kyndall Brinkmann, Michelle Ewing, Joe Collins and Michelle St. John; and 20 great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, her son Christopher, and her parents.
There will be a remembrance gathering from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25. 2019 at Indiana Funeral Care – Greenwood Chapel – 2433 E. Main St, Greenwood, IN 46143. A service will follow at 4:00 p.m., with Pastor Mark Petty officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Joan’s name to the Martinsville Senior Center at 1369 N. Blue Bluff Rd, Martinsville, IN 46151.
Lorene Champlin says
My sympathy, love and prayers to the family of Joan F. Brinkmann. Lorene Champlin, Brownsburg, Indiana.
Sharon Woodrum says
Wonderful beautiful lady. You will be so missed. 😇
Linda Kopetsky says
Joan was a great lady glad I was able to be a small part of her big life. Condolences to all the family.
Lois Southerland says
Sorry to hear about your loss. She was a special and classy lady. Love and prayers, Jim and Lois Southerland
Virginia Walker says
Joan was my client for about 30 years and was so special to me. As I did her hair every week , I enjoyed seeing the happiness in her eyes as she talked about her family. She will always have a special place in my heart. Love the Walker Family