Obituary of Joan Ann Marcus

Joan Ann "Joanie" Marcus, 74, of Centre Hall, died Thursday, September 7, 2017, at the Hearthside Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, State College. Born August 21, 1943, in Queens, New York, she was the daughter of the late Murray and Ethel Star Silverman. She is survived by three children, Andrew Marcus and his wife, Kathleen, of Centre Hall, Prajna Horn and her husband, Greg, of Kauai, HI and Jennifer McCormick and her husband, Stephen, of Aldie, VA; A brother, Harry Silverman and his wife, Ceil of Delray Beach, FL; four grandchildren, Sarah and Zachary Marcus and Tyler and Sydney McCormick. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Gloria Bassuk. Joan received a Bachelor's of Arts Degree from Queens College and pursued a Master's degree from The New School where she avidly explored higher realms of consciousness. A great activist and community leader, Joan had a huge heart and cared for many. She started Project H.O.P.E. in the early 70's and fed thousands of families in the New York area. Joan was self-employed, retiring in 2007. Joan was a member of Congregation Brit Shalom and taught Sunday school at Temple Judea. Joan was a passionate philosopher, photographer and poet yet her absolute greatest joys came from playing with her grandchildren. Joan lived with great curiosity, compassion and presence and will be missed dearly by many. A private graveside service will be held at Centre County Memorial Park with Rabbi David Ostrich officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 2595 Interstate Drive, Suite 100, Harrisburg, PA 17110 or visit alz.org or to the Congregation Brit Shalom, 620 E Hamilton Ave, State College, PA 16801. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com.