Joann Marie Powers

Joann Marie Powers (Pamer), age 73, departed this world on Saturday, January 6, 2024, after valiantly battling ovarian cancer for 18 months. A resident of Kankakee for nearly 35 years, Joann leaves a legacy of love, friendship, resilience, design, volunteerism, and cherished memories. Joann’s life will be celebrated on Sunday, January 14, at Clancy Gernon Hertz Funeral Home in Kankakee. Visitation is from 11am-2pm with a Memorial Service starting at 2pm. Joann is survived by her loving and devoted family: John, her husband of 52 years; her son Adam and his wife Katie Kelley Powers of Wheaton, Ill.; and, her daughter Alicia and husband Matthew Pope of Chicago, Ill. Joann's heart was most full when surrounded by the joy, love, and laughter of her six grandchildren: Bowan Powers, Ainsley Anne Pope, Kaia Powers, Maisy Marie Pope, Greyer Powers, and Brooks Powers. Joann was a dear sister and best friend to Diane (Pamer) and Tom Boggs; Glenn and Mary Pamer; and Wayne and Mindy Pamer. She was also a cherished sister-in-law to Julia Petry. A loving aunt to many, including: Hisham, Lee Anne, and Lila Petry; Michelle (Powers), Dave, and Cambria Baker; Josh, Julie, Ben, Bryce, and Lily Boggs; Shana (Boggs), Brennan, and Ava McCarthy; Ryan and Skyler Powers; Corrine (Boggs), Jamez, Amira, and Jamila Griffin; Karly, Will and Tyler Pamer. Joann’s warmth and generosity shone through in all that she did. She greeted everyone with a smile, made quick and lasting friends, and was always ready with a hug. She was a dedicated volunteer, tirelessly contributing her time and efforts to various causes, leaving an enduring impact effect on those she served. Joann found particular joy in supporting numerous local political campaigns, driven by her passion for engaging in her community and making positive changes. Joann's creative talents flourished as a skilled graphic designer. In the 1990s, she founded Design Power, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and artistic prowess. Many of her distinctive logos and designs continue to grace the landscape of Kankakee County. She brought this same artistry to all aspects of her life, from hosting beloved friends, family, and neighbors to tending to her beautiful gardens. She is preceded in death by her parents, Adam and Mary (Steiner) Pamer of Kenmore, Ohio. Additionally, her brothers-in-law; Donald Powers and William Petry and great-niece Ashley Griffin. Joann’s life was a testament to the enduring power of love, family, and friends. Her impact on the lives she touched will be remembered with love and gratitude. May she rest in peace and may the light she brought to those she loved continue to shine bright. Donations can be made to the University of Chicago Medicine for Ovarian Cancer Research, to Wright in Kankakee or your favorite charity in Joann’s name.

Joann Marie Powers

April 3, 1950 - January 6, 2024