Obituary of JoAnn Larkins

JoAnn Mary Dolce was born in Monroe, Michigan on September 11, 1933. She was the daughter of the late Dominic Dolce and the late Mary (D'Arpini) Dolce. JoAnn graduated high school from St. Mary's Academy in Monroe. She married Lyle Larkins on November 14, 1953 and from this union came the birth of five children. JoAnn had a passion for children. For more than ten years she worked as a Teacher's Aide for Monroe County Schools. She also enjoyed writing poetry and composing short stories. Many of JoAnn's stories were shared with the students she taught. JoAnn was proud of the fact that she had the opportunity to publish some of her poetry as well. A life-long Monroe resident, JoAnn obtained her Associates of Science Degree from Monroe County Community College. JoAnn also enjoyed arts and crafts, and traveling. JoAnn Mary Larkins age 77 of Monroe passed away at 1:30pm, Monday, April 25, 2011 at Magnum Health and Rehab. She had been under the care of Mercy Memorial Hospice. In addition to her parents her passing was preceded by her husband Lyle on July 4, 1971. She leaves to cherish her memory two daughters: Diana (Blair) Schlepp of Phoenix, Arizona and Julie Larkins of Monroe; three sons: Michael Larkins of Daytona Beach, Florida, Barry (Grace) Larkins of Florida, and Brian (Scott) Larkins-Lloyd of Los Angeles, California; ten grandchildren, and one great grandchild. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm, Wednesday, April 27, 2011 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185 where a Celebration of Her Life will take place at 11:00am, Thursday, April 28, 2011. The Rev. Roy Southerland Pastor of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church will officiate. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial.