Nov.
11, 1932 - Dec. 18, 2009SOUTH BEND - Joan Ann Chambers, 77, of South Bend, IN, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2009. Mrs. Chambers was born November 11, 1932, in Cairo, IL, to Nelson and Katherine Stelzer. On February 2, 1957, she married James George Chambers in Iowa City, IA. James preceded her in death September 9, 1985. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and by an only sister, Betty Falkenhainer. Joan, devoted wife and mother, is survived by a daughter, Kim (Ron) Vrana of South Bend; son, Bradford (Susan) Chambers of Atlanta, GA; sister-in-law, Joanne Sanders of Harlan, IA; five grandchildren, Michael and Ryan Vrana of South Bend, Christina, Bradon and Courtney Chambers of Atlanta, GA; and a nephew and cousins. Mrs. Chambers graduated from Cairo High School in Illinois in May of 1950. She received her degree in nursing from the University of Iowa in 1954. Coming to South Bend in 1960, she became a member of the Grace United Methodist Church on June 21, 1962. For several years, she helped in the church nursery and taught toddlers Sunday school. As her children were growing up, she was a Blue Bird leader, Cub Scout Den Mother, Room Mother several times for Tarkington school, and an active volunteer at East Side Little League and Adams High School Athletic Booster Club. She was a member of the Red Hatters, and Respice Care, where she was helping until the end. A gathering of friends will be held from 4-6 PM on Monday, December 21, in the McGann Hay, University Chapel, 2313 E. Edison Road. Memorial contributions may be made to Pet Refuge or to the St. Joseph County Humane Society. To send condolences, please visit www.mcgannhay.com.