Joan E. Washburn

Joan Emily Washburn (Tworek), 91, of Dunkirk, NY, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 17, 2026 surrounded by loved ones.

Joan was born on August 25,1934 in Dunkirk, NY to Emily (Tworek) Zuralski. After graduating from Dunkirk High School, Joan went on to pursue a career at Fredonia Central School District. On February 9, 1957 she married the love of her life, her husband Bill. and together they shared two wonderful boys and a lifetime of cherished memories. Joan was a beloved cafeteria chef at Fredonia Central. She took great pride in nourishing students and staff with a warm meal and an even warmer smile. For over 20 years, Joan ensured that the students and staff were well-fed and cared for.

Beyond her career, Joan had a deep passion for crossword puzzles as well as being an avid reader. Joan loved socializing while playing pinochle with her friends and family. She enjoyed nature and was known for her quiet patience, she spent countless happy hours observing nature and marveling at the beauty of birds. True to her nature as a devoted caregiver, Joan was always watching out for her family—just as she was always watching the backyard for her favorite feathered friends.

She was known for her boundless capacity to love and an extraordinarily generous spirit in which she would always put her family first. Joan possessed a deeply caring heart, always putting the needs of others before her own. With a heart of gold, Joan made everyone around her feel valued and understood. A gentle, loving soul, Joan gave her time and love unconditionally.

Our family will be forever grateful to the staff at Chautauqua County Home for their kindness, patience, and the exceptional care they provided to Joan.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Willam B. Washburn; her parents Emily and Charles Zuralski; parents-in-law Burton and Cecilia Washburn and her sister MaryAnn (Kenneth) Welka.

Joan is survived by her beloved sons, Rodger Washburn, Rich (Cheryl) Washburn; sister Florence (Charles) Symans; her nephews Gordon Gould, Jeff Gould, Stephen (Nancy) Welka, Chris (Sherry) Welka, Scott (Wendy) Symans and her niece Cheryl Symans.

Relatives and friends are welcome to attend Calling Hours on Saturday, May 23, 2026 from 9-11 a.m. at McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, NY. Prayer services will begin at 11 a.m. Interment will be held in Willowbrook Park Cemetery. Arrangements are by R. Michael Mackowiak III; McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to North County Dementia & Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group or Lakeshore Humane Society.