Joanne Demkovich Persic

Joanne Demkovich Persic, 71, of Munster, Indiana, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, generosity, and boundless love for her family.
Born in Hammond, Indiana, on December 19, 1953, to James and Carol Demkovich. A devout Catholic and active member of St. Thomas More Parish in Munster, faith was central to her being.

Joanne earned her nursing degree from Purdue Calumet and built a remarkable career as a Hospice Nurse at Hospice of the Calumet Area. Her work in hospice care required a rare combination of clinical skill, emotional depth, and spiritual grace—qualities that defined Joanne completely. She had an extraordinary gift for bringing comfort and dignity to those in their final chapters, and her gentle presence touched countless lives during their most vulnerable moments.

Beyond her nursing career, Joanne was a Girl Scout Troop Leader and involved with numerous service projects. She enjoyed the time she spent at the YMCA in Schererville meeting with friends and taking part in various classes, with Zumba being her favorite. She was known throughout her community as a generous and welcoming spirit—a host who ensured no guest ever left her table hungry, a friend who gave freely of her time and heart, and an animal lover.

Joanne's greatest joy, however, was her family. She lived for her three grandchildren—Parker Howell, Evelyn Howell, and Reed Persic—showering them with the same boundless love and attention she gave to everyone around her. Her infectious laugh, her love of reading and travel, her beautiful flower garden, her spirited support for the Chicago Bears and Cubs, and her skill at the card table made her the heart of every gathering. Joanne was an avid shopper who loved purses and jewelry.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, Robert Persic; her daughter Jacqueline Howell and son-in-law James; her son Steven Persic and daughter-in-law Nicole; her siblings Kathy Stemnock and husband Jerome, Judy Demkovich, and Andy Demkovich and wife Ivette; and her three cherished grandchildren.

Joanne was preceded in death by her parents James and Carol Demkovich, her brother James Demkovich, and her beloved Beagle, Bailey.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Joanne's honor to Hospice of the Calumet Area, an organization whose mission reflected her life's work of compassion and care.

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