Joan Marie Engel

Danville- Joan Marie (Reffeitt Warner) Engel, 79, of Danville passed away at 6:30 PM on Saturday, August 18, 2012 at Vermilion Manor Nursing Home in Danville. She was born on April 24, 1933 in Georgetown, IL to Kenneth and Naomi Reffeitt. She was married to Ed Engel with whom she had been for 23 years. He survives. Also surviving are three children, Ron Warner of Springfield, IL, Susie Marie (Warner) Farrant of Concord, NC, and Mark Alan Warner of Jacksonville, IL; brother Bill Reffeitt; two sisters, Phyliss Rogers and Mary Struhbar; granddaughter Amber Marie Farrant of Concord, NC; and numerous nieces, nephews, and loved ones. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Helen Taylor, and brothers Jack and Jim Reffeitt. Joan had earned her doctorate in psychology and specialized in education and learning disabilities. Her dissertation was focused on learning disability and her book appeared in many universities around the world. She had worked as a psychologist for Vermilion County, but most recently was at District 118. She was a poetry lover, but most importantly, Joan made a difference in the world for many people through her work. Per Joan's wishes, there will be no services. She is at peace, no pain, and we will see her in Heaven. Joan will rest on Cherokee Nation, finally home. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, A Life Celebration Home in Danville is in charge of cremation arrangements. Memorials in her name may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Cancer Society. Please join Joan's family in sharing memories of her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.