Joan Marie Rubel of Sarasota, Florida and Boothbay Harbor, Maine died Sept. 23 after battling Alzheimer’s disease for several years.

She is survived by her husband, Philip; three daughters, Susanne, Karina and Natalie; grandson, Sebastian; and extended family.

Joan was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware. She and Philip raised their family in Marblehead, Massachusetts. Joan was a wonderful mother and also worked in some professional and volunteer roles in her community. She volunteered at both the Children’s Hospital in Salem, Massachusetts and the St. Andrews Hospital Auxiliary in Boothbay Harbor.

She enjoyed reading, playing tennis, collecting cookbooks, and she had an excellent command of English grammar. She will be remembered for her infinite patience, gentle nature and sense of humor. She adored her family and friends, and she will be greatly missed.

A family service will be held in Maine next summer. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the National Alzheimer’s Association of Sarasota.