Joanne "Joni" E. Van Galder

Joni Van Galder, age 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Raclin Hospice House in Mishawaka, Indiana. She was born on October 4, 1948, in Beloit, Wisconsin, to Marjorie and Russell Van Galder.

Joni graduated from Beloit Memorial High School in 1966 and went on to live in various places, including Hawaii, California, Madison, and northern Indiana, each of which left a unique imprint on her life.

Joni will be fondly remembered for her unwavering kindness, infectious sense of humor, and genuine care for others. She acted as a mother figure to neighborhood children and fostered several kids who were going through rough patches with their families. In her professional life, Joni dedicated many years to the insurance industry, where she took pride in going above and beyond to support her customers and coworkers.

Her passions included reading, nature, spending time with her beloved dogs, computers, and taking long walks. Above all, Joni loved making people laugh, and her quick wit and joyful spirit will be missed.

Joni is survived by her two sons, Ryan Dudley (Brianne) of Fullerton, CA, and Alex Van Galder of South Bend, IN; her cherished grandchildren, Wyatt, Beckett, Mylie, and Grayson; her sisters, Lynne Morris and Susan Van Galder (Regis George); her brothers, Kent, Clark (Jean), Kurt (Carol Ann), and her twin brother, Gene Van Galder (Connie); along with many nieces and nephews who held her close. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Vicki.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Joni’s life will be held from 12-3pm on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at the Rio Park Event Center, 3028 E Mishawaka Ave, South Bend, IN 46615.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Joseph Hospital and Raclin Hospice House for their compassionate care during Joni’s final days.