Joan M Petzel

Joan Marion Petzel, 87, formerly of Titusville, FL, passed away in Tampa, FL, on April 19, 2024. Born September 22, 1936, in Newark, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Emily (Ondrejovic) Barnes.

Joan's early years in Newark, NJ were shared with her siblings - brother Robert and sisters Eleanor, Margie, and Ann. Her childhood bond with her sister Eleanor was enduring, a friendship that lasted a lifetime and provided constant comfort and companionship.

Following her high school graduation, Joan pursued a career in office work, diligently mastering shorthand skills. Outside work, she enjoyed time with her close friends, frequently heading to the boardwalk and seashore for relaxation, laughter, and many evenings filled with dancing.

After marrying Tony Petzel on February 26, 1955, Joan embraced the full-time role of mother and homemaker. Together, the couple ventured to Arkville, NY, in 1959 to establish 'Meadow Brook,' a restaurant and bed-and-breakfast lodge catering to hunters. Joan found joy in working at the restaurant, raising her growing family, and exploring the picturesque woods of upstate New York, where she developed a passion for hunting.

In 1963, a new chapter began as the family relocated to Margaretville, NY, where they embraced country living in a sprawling yellow farmhouse. Here, they opened their doors to a menagerie of animals, from horses and hunting dogs to a woodchuck they named Peanuts. Summers were marked by the joyous arrival of extended family, with numerous cousins filling the rooms with laughter and memories that would last a lifetime.

Their move to Florida in 1970 brought them to Titusville, where Joan saw three generations gather, sharing stories, laughter, and the warmth of family. Joan adored having everyone together for holidays and celebrations, often spending hours preparing delicious meals (and sweet desserts!) that were greatly appreciated, creating lasting moments cherished by all.

Joan's pastimes included outings to the movies and theater with friends, maintaining enduring friendships throughout her life. Traveling north to spend time with her family, such as her beloved sister Ann, brought her happiness, as she treasured every moment together. Joan also enjoyed visiting antique stores, where she could lose herself in the nostalgia of the past and uncover unique treasures. She was known for collecting and wearing beautiful jewelry, each piece holding a story and adding sparkle to her life.

Joan will be remembered for her remarkable gift of conversation, always ready to share stories and connect with those around her. Her family and friends fondly recall her as a caring mother, ensuring her family had breakfast before school and dinner together at night. Joan and Tony devoted themselves wholeheartedly to supporting all three of their children's hopes and dreams, selflessly giving to the ones they held dear.

Joan is survived by her daughters, Doreen Horvath and Diane Petzel Delano; her grandchildren, Connie, Nicholas, Rachel, Hannah, Chad, and Cole; and her twelve great-grandchildren: Avery, Magnum, Maverick, Monroe, Raven, Ripp, Gavin, Anabel, Landon, Caleb, Zack, and Ally.

In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Anthony Petzel, whom she was married to for 64 years until his passing in 2019; her beloved son, Tony Petzel, Jr.; her brother, Robert; her sisters, Eleanor and Margie; and her niece, Susan.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Joan’s life will be held at 1 pm on May 22, 2024, at the North Brevard Funeral Home, 1450 Norwood Ave., Titusville, FL 32780.  A graveside service will follow at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery. Following the graveside service, a Celebration of Life will be held at Fox Lake Park.

Both flowers and memorial donations are welcomed in remembrance of Joan's life.

To RSVP for the Celebration of Life or information on sending flowers or donations, please contact Diane at 321-427-1523.

As we gather to honor Joan's memory, she will be deeply missed as a sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. We invite you to share your memories and stories, ensuring that the love and laughter she brought into our lives will always be remembered.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.