Joan Kay (Valade) Bodette

Joan Bodette, 73, of Petoskey, MI, passed away at her residence on Sunday, September 14, 2025.

She was a kind, loving and devoted sister, mother, grandmother and friend. Throughout her life, she made significant contributions to her family, workplace, and community.  She began her career as a nurse’s aide, demonstrating inherent compassion and commitment to service.  After marrying Jeff Bodette in 1974, Joan transitioned to The Ad-Vertiser Shopping News, which she and her husband acquired in 1976.  Her expertise in sales, advertising design, and public engagement was invaluable to the business.  In 1996 the couple sold their company, and Joan continued her dedication to helping others by working as an optical technician for Dr. John Degroot and Dr. Carl Powers until her retirement.    

Joan’s legacy endures in the lives of those she touched.  She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. 

She is survived by her son, Nicholas Bodette; granddaughter, NoraGrayce Bodette; brother James Valade; sister Jane (Gerald) Kyle; brother Thomas Valade.

A celebration of life will be held for Joan on May 8, 2026, from the hours of 12:00 PM to 2 PM, at the Grand Unity Event Center in Petoskey, Michigan.