Joan Elizabeth Gatz

Joan Elizabeth Gatz of St. Cloud, Fla. died peacefully at home on Dec. 19, 2023, after a long illness. She was 87.

Born in Riverhead, N.Y., in 1936, she was the daughter of Henry and Josephine (Grodski) O’Kula and one of three children. Her greatest loves were her husband and family; cooking, baking (especially apple pies), and following the New York Yankees were close seconds.

She is survived by her high school sweetheart and loving husband of 64 years, George, and five children: daughter Georgianne (Mike), sons Gregory (Dana), Gary, Terry and Timothy (Jennifer); beautiful granddaughters Ellis, Lilah and Jessica (Josh); and great-grandson River; her sister, Marian “Bunny” Newton; brother Kevin (Holly); and many nieces and nephews.

The family received friends Dec. 27 and the Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Dec. 28 at St. Thomas Aquinas R.C. Church in St. Cloud. Father Derek Saldanah officiated.

Interment followed at Mt. Peace Cemetery in St. Cloud. Arrangements were under the care of Fisk Funeral Home and Crematory in St. Cloud. Online condolences may be made at fiskfh.com.

This is a paid notice.