Joan Marie Walker

Joan Marie Walker, beloved mother, sister, grandmother and friend, devoted Catholic, and passionate horse lover, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, at the age of 78.

Joan was born on July 31, 1946, in Chicago to Elmer and Mary Boudreau. She lived her life with strength, conviction, and deep faith. She was a woman who liked things done right, and her strong will and natural leadership touched every part of her life. Whether caring for her family, managing her home, or working with her beloved horses, she did so with precision, purpose, and pride.

She is survived by her daughter Kim Rader and husband James Rader; sons Joseph Walker, Kent Walker and wife Brittani Walker, and Michael Walker; four granddaughters and four great-granddaughters; sisters Elaine Macellaio and Janet Van Donk and husband Joseph Van Donk. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews. They will forever cherish her strength, her wisdom, and her love. She was preceded in death by her parents and her son Martin Walker.

A Catholic graveside service will be held at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery in Alsip, IL, on May 31 at 1:30 p.m., with the Rite of Committal to follow. A memorial Mass will also be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Springfield, MO, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you honor Joan’s memory by performing an act of kindness or service for others, as a reflection of her faith.