Joan Lavery, of Frontenac, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, at Ascension Via Christi Village in Pittsburg, Kansas, at the age of 95. Her passing marks the end of a long, vibrant life that was defined by love, laughter, and the warmth she shared with everyone who knew her.
Joan was born on Jan. 22, 1930, to Paul and Marguerite (Nepote) Onelio in Dunkirk, Kansas. She graduated from Frontenac High School in 1946. Joan, or “Mema,” as her grandchildren lovingly called her, was the type of person who made everyone feel like family. She spent time with friends and family, playing cards, and dancing Polka at Bartos for many years.
A true animal lover, Joan had a special bond with her cats, adopting and spoiling them throughout her life. Joan’s soft spot for animals was matched only by her deep passion for sports. She was a dedicated fan of KU Basketball, always quick to cheer on her team with enthusiasm. Her competitive nature also shone through in her love for bowling, where she often participated in local leagues. Joan worked for a number of local businesses over the years, including the Simion/Peterson Insurance Agency, John Ewing/Crawford County Realty, P&M Coal Company, and Spigarelli Law Firm.
She is survived by her son, Mark Lavery and wife Julia of Joplin, MO; a daughter, Kristi Lavery of Arma, KS; three grandchildren Sara Lavery Ambler of Oak Grove, MO, Jordan Potter of Arma, KS, Seth Potter and wife Stephanie and their daughter Agatha Potter of Pittsburg, KS, and a niece, Cindy Onelio Vance.
Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Marguerite, and her brother, Paul “Bernie” Onelio.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in her honor on Wednesday, June 18, at 10:30 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac, with Father Caleb Kuestersteffen as celebrant. Burial will follow at Highland Park Cemetery. A parish rosary will be prayed at 10 a.m., just before the service begins. The family asks that memorials be given to the Sacred Heart Altar Society and/or the S.E.K. Humane Society, causes that were close to Joan’s heart. Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St. Pittsburg KS 66762.
