Joan M. Stegner

“I have glorified thee on earth; I have finished the work which thou grant me to do.” (John 17:4)

Joan Margaret Stegner, 91, a lifelong resident of Honesdale passed to eternal life October 7, 2022.  She was born July 1, 1931 to the late Robert E. and Leila A. (Hessling) Stegner.   She was the twin sister of the late Janet Stegner, and sister of the late Dr. Robert Stegner and Grace Keen. Surviving are nephews Robert Keen and wife Nancy Mohn and Philip Keen and wife Sonja.

A Honesdale High School graduate of the Class of 1949, Joan and her sister Janet played trumpet duets at nearly every musical occasion in Honesdale. They represented Honesdale High School in 1949 at the Pennsylvania All State Band.  Both Joan and sister Janet were accepted by audition to the renowned Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester majoring in piano and trumpet. They were members of Sigma Alpha Iota, the national honorary fraternity of professional musicians.

Joan’s life was centered around music, teaching, gardening and after retirement, the care of her beloved parents.  Joan was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and sang in the choir for many years which was directed by her mother, the organist, and included all six members of the family. Joan lived by the values of her Catholic faith, offering this Prayer of St. John Vianney:

“To be loved by God,

To be united with God,

To love in the presence of God,

To live for God. OH!

What a beautiful life and what a beautiful death.”

A private graveside service was held at Bethany Cemetery with Father William Langan officiating.  Arrangements were entrusted to the Hessling Murray Funeral Home, 428 Main Street, Honesdale, PA.