December 6, 1930 — November 12, 2018
CHESTERTOWN — Our Mom, Joan M. Flaherty Koehler Conway, passed away peacefully during the early morning hours of November 12, 2018, after a very brief illness. Being the matriarch of a large family and friend to many, we are all brokenhearted by her passing. She lived life to the absolute fullest. She loved hosting meals at her home in Chestertown, never turned down an invitation to go anywhere, was the last one to go to bed at a family get together, remembered dates and events better than anyone else and enjoyed playing Words with Friends. But more than anything in this world, she loved her family and took such delight in each and every one of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
“Joanie” was the fourth and youngest daughter of James and Margaret (Muller) Flaherty, born on Dec. 6, 1930 in Astoria, Queens.
After the death of her first husband Frank, and subsequent marriage to John Conway, they moved from Long Island to the Adirondacks where they owned and operated Conway’s Country Store, Conway’s Lake Manor and The Apple Tree gift shop for many years. Mom’s friendly demeanor and generosity was well known throughout our community. She was a much beloved presence in the communities of North Creek and Chestertown, frequenting local businesses and restaurants while spreading good cheer. At Christmastime, she would become Mrs. Claus to help Santa hand out presents and goodies to all the children.
With her vibrant personality and zest for life, Joanie easily became a friend to all who had the pleasure of meeting her. She will be tremendously missed, but leaves her legacy and infinite “Joanie” stories for all to share.
In addition to her parents and sisters, she was predeceased by three loving husbands, Frank H. Koehler (1969), John J. Conway (2001) and Douglas C. Van Weelden Sr. (2009); granddaughter, Shannon A. SanAntonio (1992); and her companion, William Siebert (2013).
She is survived by her five children, Kathleen Pellatt (John) of Glens Falls, Patricia Morehouse (Frank) of North Creek, Carol Monroe (Fred) of Chestertown, Frank Koehler (Kim) of Red Hook and James Conway (Mindy) of Chestertown; 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and two more on the way who she was very much looking forward to meeting; loving nieces and nephews and countless friends both old and new. She is also survived by her companion, George Green, of Wevertown.
Calling hours will be held at the Chestertown Town Hall, 6307 U.S. Route 9, Chestertown from 2 to 7 p.m Friday, Nov. 16. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, at St. Isaac Jogues-St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Chestertown. Interment will be at St. James Cemetery in North Creek.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Joan Conway to Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northeast New York, 3 Washington Square, Albany, NY 12205.
Arrangements are entrusted to Barton-McDermott Funeral Home, Inc. 9 Pine St., Chestertown, NY 12817.