Joan E. DeCelle

SARATOGA SPRINGS —Joan E. DeCelle, beloved wife of Robert, passed away on September 7, 2024 in Saratoga Springs.

Joan was born on May 17, 1940, in Albany, N.Y. to Angeline and Joseph Michalski. After graduating from high school, Joan worked at the New York Telephone Company. When her children were born, Joan stayed home to raise them for many years. When Joan returned to working outside the home, she worked at Firestone and the NYS Department of Motor Vehicle before joining the staff at the Saratoga Springs Public Library. 

Joan was predeceased by her husband Robert DeCelle. She is survived by her daughter Debra Covell (Sean), son Robert (Renee), her grandchildren Ian, Declan, Damon, Lucie, many nieces and nephews, and her brother Joseph Michalski. She was predeceased by her sisters Anna and Kathy.

Joan was a devoted wife. She and Robert were deeply committed to each other until the very end of their lives and were the embodiment of the vows they exchanged 59 years ago. Joan loved her children and grandchildren. The times she spent with Ian, Declan, Damon, and Lucie were a special joy to her and she delighted in their company.

Joan was also a lifelong reader and loved being outdoors – working in her garden, walking in the park or visiting the ocean. Her family cherishes their wonderful memories of summer vacations on the coast of Maryland. She will be remembered with love and gratitude. 

Joan’s family is forever grateful to the staff at the Wesley Community who gave her incredible care and embraced her as their own. The family would also like to thank the social workers, nurses, and chaplain from Community Hospice for their support and caring.

Relatives and friends are invited to a funeral home service at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 20, at William J. Burke & Sons/ Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 N. Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

A burial will immediately follow the service at Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd., Schuylerville, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joan’s name to The Community Hospice of Saratoga County, 179 Lawrence Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.