Obituary of Joan C. Starkweather

Joan Catherine Korn Starkweather of Rush, NY, died Tuesday, December 21, 2021, at age 85. Predeceased by her husband, John F. Starkweather; parents Jerome and Irma Korn; grandson Martin Starkweather; and son-in-law, Chad Capule (husband to Anne). She is survived by her children John (Catherine), Janet (Bruce Popovich), Mary, Robert (Helén), Anne, Susan (David Gionfriddo), and Helen (Joseph Dalaker); and grandchildren Cato Louw, Leah Starkweather, Nathaniel Howe, and Thomas Howe; her siblings, Sister Janet Korn, RSM, Gerald Korn (Maureen), and Kathleen McKenna (Jeffrey); her companion, Harvey Seymour; as well as many nieces and nephews. Joan was guided by her values of care and service to others, living a life of engagement in her community. She was born in Buffalo, NY. Joan was a graduate of Our Lady of Mercy high school, attended Nazareth College, and graduated from the University of Rochester. Mother of seven children, she was a resident of Rush and an active member of St. Joseph's Parish since 1962. From 1981-2001, she was the Director of the Rush Public Library and is fondly remembered for her kind and helpful service. Under her leadership, the library transitioned from paper to computerized collections. In 2004, in recognition of Joan's devotion to the community through her role, the library named their children's room after her. Friends may call Sunday, December 26, 2021, from 1-4pm at the Merton H. Kays Funeral Home, Inc., 59 Monroe Street, Honeoye Falls, NY. Her Funeral Mass will be held at St. Marianne Cope Parish, in St. Joseph's Church, 1209 Rush West Rush Road, Rush, NY, on Monday, December 27 at 10 a.m. Burial at Pine Hill Cemetery. The family asks that all who attend wear masks and are vaccinated for Covid-19, to protect the health of family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials or donations can be made to the Rush Public Library, designated in her name. To leave a condolence, please visit www.mertonkaysfuneralhome.com