Joan Marie Allers' Obituary
Joan Marie Allers, 77, of Big Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 29, 2024. Born on August 31, 1947, to Peter and Elsie Balavitch, Joan spent her early years in Weir, Michigan, before moving to Big Rapids in 1963. She graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1965.
In 1964, Joan met the love of her life, Gordy Allers, and they were married in November 1965, beginning a beautiful partnership that spanned nearly six decades. Together, they built a family and a legacy rooted in love, community, and hospitality.
Joan worked for many years in retail at Kroger, Carters, and Staples, where her warm smile and dedication were well-known. Later in life, she served as the RTC teacher for Big Rapids Public Schools, retiring after a career marked by her care and commitment to others. Joan was an active member of the Big Rapids community, serving with pride in the BPWC and as President of the Eagles Auxiliary in Big Rapids.
In retirement, Joan and Gordy enjoyed traveling, with memorable trips to Florida, Ohio, and a once-in-a-lifetime Alaskan adventure to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Her happiest moments were spent with family, whether hosting large Christmas gatherings, planning the Allers family reunions, or enjoying campfires and s’mores. Known affectionately as “Grammie” to both family and friends, Joan embraced everyone with open arms and a loving heart.
Joan is survived by her devoted husband, Gordy; her children, Tina (Kevin) Randall, Gordy Jr. (Sarah) Allers, and Debra (Kenneth) Rolston. She leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Erin Randall (Liz Dean), Allison (Ragen) Frost, Kate Randall, Jordan Allers (Jamison Hawley), Brayden (Carly) Allers, Bryce Allers (Carlos Bottomo), Andrew, Ashton, Trenton and Tanner VanLangen, Emilee (Nate) Cooley, Holly (Timothy) Reed, as well as her cherished great-grandchildren, Berkley, Wessyn, Ciara, Cade, Thea, and one more soon to join the family.
Joan’s kindness, generosity, and love for life touched everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed but remembered always with love and gratitude.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids, with Pastor Ron Witbeck officiating. Joan’s family will greet friends on Thursday, January 2nd, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home, and again on Friday beginning at 10:00 a.m. Joan will be laid to rest at Pine Plains Cemetery in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joan’s honor may be made to the Susan P. Wheatlake Regional Cancer Center or the American Heart Association.
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