Joan Estelle (Grieve) Shear

Joan Estelle Shear, 94 of Petoskey, Michigan, passed away June 24, 2026, at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan, Michigan.

Joan was born in Howell, Michigan, the daughter of James and Eleanor (Gerkin) Grieve. She grew up in Wyandotte, Michigan and attended Roosevelt High School.

As a young teen she met her future husband, Walter (Bud) Shear, Jr., when their families lived next door to each other. On May 16, 1953, just shy of her 21st birthday, she and Bud married at St. Patrick’s Church.

Joan and Bud raised 4 sons in southeast Michigan before retiring to the north country in the late 1980’s.

Joan was a devout Catholic, dedicated mother and loving wife of 65 years. Active in the St. Francis Xavier Parish she particularly enjoyed her volunteer work with Brother Dan’s Food Pantry.

Joan is survived by her son Walter (Bud) III (Nancy), daughter-in-law Pat; grandchildren Joe (Chelsea), Cara (Marcos), Gracie, Sarah (Matt), Nick, Morgan, Hannah; great-grandchildren Wyatt, Lucy and Holly Ann. 

Preceded in death by her parents; husband; sons Larry, Bob, and Ed; and daughter-in-law Holly.

With gratitude, the family sends a heartfelt thanks to the Grandvue staff for their compassionate care during the 3 years Joan was a resident.

A mass to celebrate Joan’s life will be held at St. Matthew Catholic Church, Boyne City on Thursday, July 2 at 11:00 AM with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM.

Arrangements are in the care of Stackus Funeral Home of Boyne City, Michigan.