Joan "Joni" White, 81, died peacefully in her sleep at home on June 5, 2016, in Watervliet, after a long courageous battle with cancer.

Joni is survived by her loving brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Debbie Admave of Coloma; her niece, Angela (Brian) Fee of St. Joseph; nephews, Joe (Tina) Admave of South Bend, Ind., and Chris Admave of Coloma; nieces: Julie (Charles) Hartle of Coloma, Debbie Bujack of Watervliet, and Tracy (Jim) Sheffer of Watervliet; nephews, Art "Butch" (Barb) Frank of Watervliet, and Bob (Theresa) Frank of Watervliet. She is also survived by many great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Sophie Admave; father, William Chesna; sister, Carol Frank; nephew, Bill Frank; great-nephew Matthew Bujack; and husband, Charlie White.

Joni was born on April 18, 1935, in Chicago. As a young adult, she moved to Watervliet and lived there for the rest of her life. She worked for the Watervliet Paper Mill for many years, alongside her brother, Jerry. In her later years, Joni worked in homecare, helping the elderly and caring for others that suffered with illness. Joni loved to spend her free time with her family and friends. She adored animals and found pleasure in the simple things in life. She looked forward to watching her favorite TV shows every day, Gunsmoke and Columbo. And her smile would light up the room whenever we would show up with her favorite Lithuanian snack… bacon buns. In addition, Joni was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Parish.

She was a strong, independent, brave and loving woman. Joni will be deeply missed.

A memorial Mass is scheduled for 11 a.m. Monday June 13, 2016, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Watervliet. A Christian burial will follow the service and a reception will follow immediately after. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Joni's life. Flowers and condolences may be sent to St. Joseph Catholic Church by 9 a.m. Monday June 13, 157 Lucinda Lane, Watervliet, MI 49098. Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet is assisting Joni's family with arrangements. You are invited to leave a memory of Joni at hutchinsfuneral.com .