Joan M. (Fisk) Ender, 85, of Niles, passed away at her home on Nov. 25, 2010 with her family by her side.

She was born on Sept. 24, 1925 to the late Otto “Doc” and Bertha (Goering) Fisk in South Bend, Ind. Joan was one of two children in the Fisk household.

On Dec. 19, 1943 she wed the love of her life, William Ender, at a ceremony in Galien. Together they had two wonderful children.

She worked at Studebaker for nearly 20 years until she had children. After that she became a homemaker.

She was always the “Cool Mom,” helped her children with anything that she could and was always their go-to person.  Her house always had an open door for all who wished to come, especially if it was to root on the Cubs or the University of Michigan.

Growing up on a farm always continued into her life. She had a love of flowers and gardening that was unrivaled and she loved to feed the birds and deer outside her window at home.

She had a clear head, was full of spunk and continued to have a great sense of humor and was never afraid to speak her mind.

She is preceded in death by her parents Doc Fisk and Bertha Bowker, husband Bill and brother Richard Fisk.

She is survived by her children William “Bill” (Kathryn) Ender Jr. and Jill Ender, both of Niles and a granddaughter, Elizabeth Ender of Chicago. A special thanks to hospice and all of her caregivers that gave such devoted care.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010 at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church located at 13 South Fourth St. in Niles with a time of visitation one hour prior.

Memorial contributions may be made in Joan Ender’s memory to Hospice at Home Inc. located at 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, MI 49085 or Pet Refuge 2300 West 6th Street, Mishawaka, IN 46544.

Those wishing to leave a message, upload a photo or leave condolences for the family may do so at www.brownfuneralhomeniles.com.

Arrangements are pending with Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Niles.