JoAnn LaPlace

Frances “JoAnn” LaPlace, age 71, passed away peacefully at her home in Elkhart on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Born July 13, 1954, in Greenwood, South Carolina, JoAnn later moved to the Michiana area, where she graduated from Buchanan High School and continued her education at Lake Michigan College. She dedicated more than 40 years of service as a journeyman meat cutter with Kroger Grocery Stores before retiring to enjoy time with her family. On February 20, 2003, she married Gene “Bud” LaPlace in Gettysburg, Tennessee. They recently celebrated 22 years of marriage.

Bud survives, along with her daughter Shannon Green of Elkhart and her brother, James (Ruth) Green of Niles, Michigan. Surviving as well are her granddaughters, Ashley Green of Elkhart and Sara Green of Bristol, and 5 great grandchildren who she loved to spoil; Aubriana Green, Violet Washburn, Alivea Miller, Carson Allard and Landon Dils. She was preceded in death by her father, Cecil Green, her mother, Christine (Goodin) Elrod, and her brother, Michael Green.

Visitation will be held from 1-5 pm Sunday, December 21, 2025, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola. There will also be one hour of visitation prior to the 10am funeral service on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Cruz Family Funeral Home.

JoAnn will be remembered by her family as a wonderful cook who loved working in her yard and gardens. She was a member of UFCW Local 700 and enjoyed bowling, traveling with Bud, and spending time with her great grandchildren, especially on trips around the US. She loved playing cards and games with them and listening to classic country music.

In her memory, donations may be made to the Paralyzed Veterans of America at www.PVA.org. To light a virtual candle, share a story of JoAnn’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.