C. Joan Netzley

     C. Joan “Joan” Netzley, age 94, of St. Louis, MI, passed away Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Arbor Grove Assisted Living, Alma, MI.
     Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes St. Louis, MI, at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, with Pastor Billie Lou Gillespie officiating. Burial will take place at Emerson Township Cemetery, Emerson Township, MI. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service at the funeral home.
      Joan was born in Emerson Township, Michigan on January 4, 1932, the daughter of Howard and Viola "Fay" (White) Smith. She was a graduate of St. Louis High School. On February 11, 1950, she married Alfred L. Netzley. Alfred passed away in 2002.
      In 1950-1960, Joan taught music at different country schools. She was a 4-H Leader and volunteered her time at Gratiot Community Hospital for 15 years, and with the American Red Cross. Joan worked for Dr. David Meyer, DDS for over 20 years. She and Alfred squared danced with Calico Couples. They also attended the National Rural Letter Carriers Association Conventions in almost every state during the summer. Joan and Alfred loved to attend all of their grandchildren's school activities, including the Gratiot County Fair for Youth. She was a member of the St. Louis First United Methodist Church where she enjoyed being part of Dorcas Circle and helping with funeral luncheons. Joan was also a member of the Breckenridge Order of Eastern Stars. She was a wonderful cook and baker; Joan was known for her delicious french apple pies. Playing bingo was one of her favorite pastimes and taking part in all of the activities at Arbor Grove. The many friends she made at Arbor Grove during her four and a half years there were dear to her heart.
      She is survived by her daughter Brenda and Michael Siefka of St. Louis, MI; her grandchildren: Kelly Siefka of St. Louis, MI; Kyrie and Brett Krenz of N. Wilkesboro, NC; Leslie Siefka of Ithaca, MI; Pat and Kelly Netzley of Stevensville, MI; and Collin Netzley of Midland, MI; great-grandchildren: Madysen and Curtis Doyle, Shelby Stoneman, Reilie Netzley, Emilia Krenz, Dawson Krenz, Pazlee Donovan, Viola Donovan, Easton Netzley, Elsea Netzley, and Henry Netzley. She is also survived by daughter-in-law Corey Netzley and her children. Joan was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Alfred, son Daniel Netzley, grandson John Siefka, also her siblings: Paul Smith, Dale Smith, and Virginia Dancer. Joan's family would like to thank Arbor Grove Assisted Living for all the great care and kindness shown to her. A special thank you to Melanie "Mel" for always being there for her and making her days full of laughter. You are the best, Mel. Also, thank you to Optimal Care Hospice.
      Memorials may be made to the Gratiot County Fair for Youth or Gratiot County Community Foundation. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, Michigan.