Joan Louise Bale
June 7, 1938 – May 19, 2022
Joan Louise (Harback) Bale died suddenly on May 19, 2022, in Omaha, Nebraska.
Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Valda and Robert Harback; sister, Linda (Walters); and longtime companion, Lee Rose. She is survived by her children, Laurie and Sherry; brothers, Robert Harback, Jr. and Ronald Harback; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Joan was a source of strength and determination. She raised her children to believe they could do anything, and she dedicated herself to ensuring her physically challenged daughter could live a normal life. Long before people with physical disabilities were accepted in society, Joan fought to ensure her daughter could attend public school. Her actions paved the way for people with disabilities to have the same rights as others.
Her experience as an advocate for people with disabilities sparked Joan’s desire to become a nurse. While in her 50s, Joan enrolled in the College of St. Mary and earned her RN degree. She also became active in politics, loved taking her daughters to concerts, enjoyed traveling, and spent time caring for rescue dogs.
Joan will be interred in Kalamazoo, Michigan, next to her beloved parents. Graveside services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Nebraska Humane Society.
3 Comments
Our hearts and thoughts go out to Joan’s daughters, Sherry and Laurie during their time of loss. It was truly known what a good Mother Joan was to her children in so many ways and how dedicated she was to their welfare and happiness. She will be missed by her family and friends.
I knew Joan back in the late 70’s & early 80’s. We met through dental supply sales in Omaha, NE. Wonderful person, strong, kind, genuine and so kind and friendly.Wise beyond her years. My condolences to her family and friends.
My heart goes out to her truly amazing daughters. Both very special in their own ways. Laurie has been a long time, dear friend of mine. she is the definition of strength and perseverance. Joan raised her two daughters to be strong, independent, and loving women . Rest In Peace, Joan. I believe you are in a beautiful place, pain and worry free.
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