Joan Darlene Stover

Joan Darlene Stover of Caro, formerly of Kingston, age 88, passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Tuscola County Medical Care Community. She was born in Kingston Township, on April 17, 1938, the daughter of the late William and Dorothy (Kitely) Lippowiths. Joan graduated from Kingston High School with the Class of 1956. During her high school years, she was a member of the basketball team and discovered her love for bowling, a passion that would remain with her throughout her life.

On January 22, 1988, Joan was united in marriage with Kenneth Stover. Together, they shared a beautiful life filled with love and companionship until Ken’s passing on July 23, 2022.

Joan was employed as a paraprofessional at the Personal Independence Center in Caro, where she found great fulfillment in working with individuals of varying abilities. Through educational activities, group outings, and meaningful experiences, she encouraged those in her care to learn, grow, and embrace life's opportunities.

Joan was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church and transferred to Caro United Methodist Church in 1989. She was much more than a member of her church; she was truly a part of its heart and spirit. Whether participating in Christmas plays, dressing up for special occasions, or lending a helping hand wherever one was needed, Joan gave her whole heart to everything she did. Her enthusiasm, dedication, and willingness to go above and beyond set an example for those around her.

Joan enjoyed many activities throughout her life, but bowling held a particularly special place in her heart. An accomplished bowler, she proudly maintained one of the highest women's bowling averages and enjoyed traveling with family and friends to participate in tournaments. Her love for music was another important part of her life, and she shared her voice as a member of both the church choir and the Tom Thumb Singers community choir. Joan also enjoyed traveling, playing bingo, and making wonderful memories with those she loved.

Above all, Joan will be remembered for her remarkable kindness, unconditional love, and the genuine care she showed to everyone she encountered. She was a woman who never did anything halfway; whatever she set her mind to, she gave it her very best. Her joyful spirit, generous heart, and unwavering dedication to others will leave a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Left to cherish Joan’s memory is her daughter, Rochelle Nesbitt; several stepchildren; grandchildren, Austin Nesbitt, Alexis (Aiden Brunet) Nesbitt, Jessica (Bernard Johnsen) Bastian, Marcus & Jessica Bastian, and CJ (Dominque Robinson) Bastian; many great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Janet Bastian; and her brother and his wife, Keith & Sandy Lippowiths; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Ken Stover; and her son, Mark Bastian.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 31, 2026 at the Caro United Methodist Church with Pastor Robert Demyanovich officiating. The family will be present to receive visitors from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Caro United Methodist Church or Tuscola County Medical Care Community, c/o Life Enrichment Department.