Joan A. McElwee

  Joan A. McElwee, 80, of Lititz, died peacefully at home on Monday, December 16, 2024. Born in Passaic, NJ, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Augusta Schrull. Joan was the beloved wife of Michael P. McElwee, and they observed their 31st wedding anniversary in July of this year. For over 36 years, Joan worked in the food service department for Willow Valley Communities. Notably, she was still employed there full-time and a mentor to younger workers daily. Joan’s interests included quilting and traveling. For her 80th birthday, she experienced her first cruise, and came home telling friends and family how much fun she had. As an avid dog lover, she was always with at least one furry friend at her side for morning coffee. Joan was devoted to her family, and cherished all the time she could spend with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandson.

  Surviving in addition to her husband, Michael, are four sons: James E. Van Lenten (Crystal) of North East MD, John L. Van Lenten (Cherie) of Lancaster, Mark Van Lenten (Kristin) of Ephrata, Stephen Van Lenten of Lancaster, eight grandchildren and one great grandson.

  Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Joan’s Funeral Service at the Buch Funeral Home, 216 South Broad Street, Lititz, on Friday, December 20, 2024 at 3:00 PM. There will be a viewing at the funeral home on Friday afternoon from 2:00 PM until the time of the service. Interment will be in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, 60 Indiantown Gap Road, Annville, on Monday, December 23, 2024, (Everyone to meet at the Administration Building at the Cemetery by 10:00 AM for a 10:30 AM Interment Service.)