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Joan M. Vercler, age 82, of Constantine, died Saturday, April 27, 2024 at The Sparrow House in Sturgis after a very brief illness. She was born July 30, 1941 in Marcellus, a daughter of Arthur and Myrtle (Olsen) Busch. Joan graduated from Marcellus High School in 1959. In August of 1959 Joan married Richard Olsen, they later divorced. On July 5, 1971 she married Dr. Marvin Vercler in South Haven. He preceded her in death March 9, 2009.
During her school years Joan worked at the Pantel Drug Store and Ingersol’s Pharmacy in Marcellus. She then worked for State Farm Insurance in the early 1960’s and as a medical assistant for Dr. Marvin Vercler from 1968 until 1993. Joan later worked at D&S Food Center in Constantine, and in the Even Start Program at Centreville ISD. Joan was a member of the Constantine Lioness Club, the St. Joseph County Animal Rescue Fund, and the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Constantine. She loved Notre Dame Football, and earned a green belt at Anglemyer Tae Kwon Do where she won a state championship.
Surviving are her children Mike Olsen, Mark (Melanie) Olsen, Jenny (David) Williams, Christine (Dirk)Teitsma, along with 8 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, two sisters Eleanor Melville and Sally Timm and two brothers Robert Busch and James Busch. Joan also had 4 stepchildren, Patsy (Mike) Wertz, Mark (Gail) Vercler, Paul (Julie) Vercler and Phillip Vercler. Dr. Vercler’s children produced 11 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Joan loved her four-legged children, Jenny, Marcie and Andy, who all knew they had a great mother and were great companions.
Joan was preceded in death by her husband Dr. Marvin Vercler, her father, her mother, brothers Arthur Busch Jr, John Busch, sister Betty Cisco and grandson Zackary Lusk.
According to her wishes cremation has taken place. Relatives and friends will be received at Eley Funeral Home in Constantine Friday, May 10, 2024 from 4 to 6 PM, where Memorial Services will follow at 6 PM. Pastor Kathy Schuen, First Congregational United Church of Christ will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to St. Joseph County Animal Rescue Fund. To sign Joan’s on line guest book and leave a message for the family visit www.eleyfuneralhomes.com
