Joan Marie Hardenberg

Joan Marie (Gauthier) Hardenberg, 76, of rural Benton Harbor, passed away on Thursday, June 23, 2005, at Lakeland Specialty Hospital in Berrien Center, after a brief illness. Joan was born in Detroit, MI, on November 8, 1928, to Arthur and Irene (Steltman) Gauthier. She grew up on the Steltman family farm in Stevensville and graduated from St. Joseph Catholic High School in 1946. On March 15, 1952, she married John Hardenberg. They were married 20 years. Self-employed for more than 23 years as a home health aide, she never stopped giving selflessly to others, especially her family. A wise and self-educated student, she was passionate about life, its lessons, history, and natural healing. She was particularly proud of her work with the Edgar Cayce Clinic in Phoenix in the 1970?s. She mentored many, but most importantly her two grandsons. Joan was a deeply spiritual individual and found God and great joy in nature. Lake Michigan has lost a great friend. Joan is survived by her daughter, Linda Hardenberg Diaz of Coloma; a son, Larry Hardenberg of Benton Harbor; her brother, Richard Gauthier of Stevensville; grandsons, Alessandro (Alex) Diaz of Coloma, and YN2 Andres Diaz, United States Navy, and many family members and friends. In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by daughter, Lisa Hardenberg Koern, special aunts, and her beloved dog, Dyna. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 16 at 1:00 P.M. at the Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Visitation with the family will begin at 11:30 A.M. In lieu of donations, Joan has asked that you give some flowers or candy to someone you love. Those wishing to send the family a message of condolence or sign the guest book on-line may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com .