Joan R. (Mold) Polites

In Loving Memory of Joan R. Polites

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Joan R. (Mold) Polites, 88 of Griffith. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Bill Polites, Sr., with whom she shared many years of love, laughter, and devotion.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Jim (Eva) Polites of Naperville, Kathy (Tony) Sapyta of Griffith, Juliann (Art) Toth of South Bend, and Bill (Donna) Polites of Griffith. Her grandchildren—Samuel Sapyta, Ella Polites, and Charles Toth—were the lights of her life and the source of endless pride and joy.

Joan will be remembered not only for her gentle spirit and unwavering love, but also for her generosity and the many ways she quietly gave to her community. She was famous for her cherry slices, flaky pie crusts, and the endless cakes she made for bake sales, fundraisers, and fish fries at St. Mary’s in Griffith. Her kitchen was always filled with the comforting scents of something sweet in the oven and the warmth of a woman who gave with her whole heart.

A devoted Catholic and longtime member of St. Mary’s Parish in Griffith, Joan valued tradition and community, yet she was also a free thinker, unafraid to question and explore new ideas. A voracious reader, she found joy and inspiration in the written word, often turning to books not only for knowledge, but for the freedom they offered to imagine, reflect, and grow.

She shared a lifelong, deeply rooted friendship with her best friend, Betty Lukas Boris—a bond that brought joy, laughter, and strength through every season of life.

Though she has passed from this world, her presence remains deeply felt in the hearts of those who knew her. Her warmth, strength, and steady love shaped the lives of her family and will continue to guide them always.

Graveside service for Joan will be Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, 8178 S Cline Ave, Crown Point, IN, 46307 at 11:00 am.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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