Joan M. Marquardt, 97, died peacefully on May 29 at the Golden Years Homestead, concluding a long and rich life. Born in 1921, Joan developed an early curiosity and interest in "news," whether world events or personal tidbits shared by family and friends. This served her well in her role with the Corporate Communications Department of Lincoln Financial Group, her lifetime employer. She was particularly proud when the company enlisted her to create a corporate archive. She was a stimulating conversationalist, with a sharp sense of humor and a remarkable recall of Fort Wayne history. She was a loyal friend to many, including those much younger. She lived unconditionally and generously for her family, delighting in their successes and achievements, and standing by them in challenging circumstances. She endeared herself to Golden Years' staff, who affectionately called her "Mother Joan." She is survived by three children, Deborah (James) Marquardt Raper of Norfolk, Va.; Kevin (Debra) Marquardt and Sean (Kim) Marquardt, of Fort Wayne. Four grandchildren: Nathaniel (Megan), Justin (Angie), Jonathan (Candace) and Geoffrey. Seven great grandchildren: Cohen, Isla, Evelyn, Kobe, Laila, and Cosette Marquardt, and Kaylynn Clark. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph, her mother, father, sister, and a great grandchild, Rockwell. She was a member of St. Jude's Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:00 pm, Friday, June 1, 2018 at Saint Jude Catholic Church, 2130 Pemberton Dr., with calling one hour prior. Visitation will be held Thursday, May 31, 2018, from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne. Burial will be in Catholic Cemetery, Fort Wayne. Memorial contributions may be made to Erin's House.