Joan Barbara Markovich

Joan Barbara Markovich went to visit the Lord on October 21, 2009 after suffering from a long illness. She was the daughter of James and Helen (Svitlak) Mraz, born July 6, 1937 in McKeesport, PA. Joan married Raymond D. Markovich on April 7, 1956, and subsequently moved to Tampa, FL. In 1964 Ray and Joan moved to Cape Coral, FL and became one of the pioneering families in the area. They initially worked for Gulf American Properties, then established Markovich Realty and Raemel Homes in the early 1970's. Joan continued working in real estate and marketing after the death of her husband, and retired in 2002. She was a member of San Antonio Catholic Church of Port Charlotte. She enjoyed following current events and political issues, visiting with her many grandchildren, and caring for her beloved dog, Ginger. Joan will be greatly missed by her daughter, Rae (Scott) High; sons, Tommy (Nancy) Markovich and Michael Markovich; grandchildren, Jennifer Kistel, Joseph Kistel, Alexandra High, Daniel Markovich, Paul Markovich, Zachary Markovich, Bryan Markovich, Matthew Markovich and Nicholas Markovich; two great-grandchildren; and half-sisters, Karen Kiren, Linda Gilpin, and Janet Wellington. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Raymond. The funeral mass in celebration of Joan’s life will be at 11:00 am Saturday, October 24, 2009 at San Antonio Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens immediately following the mass. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Joan to the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County, 3519 Drance Street, Port Charlotte, FL 33980. To express condolences to the family, please sign the online guest book.