Obituaries

Joan Dian (Klimek) Tennant of New Bethlehem, PA died May 19, 2026, at the age of 81 after a fulfilling life with many sources of pride, including her military service, nursing career, and beloved family. She was born in Seminole on February 10, 1945, to Andrew and Mary (Yankel) Klimek. She graduated from Redbank Valley High School in 1963 and then from Braddock School of Nursing.

After nursing school, she served in the Navy, rising to the rank of lieutenant and stationed at Portsmouth Naval Hospital during the Vietnam War. She married Jerry Tennant, who she met while in the Navy. As a result of his career, they went on to live in Virginia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Florida, Texas, New Jersey, and ultimately coastal Maine, where they built their dream home.

Her passions included selecting antiques and art to decorate her home, travelling far and wide, and raising her beloved cocker spaniels. Joan enjoyed showing visiting family members, particularly her great-niece and nephew Lillian and Jack Shaffer, the best sites and seafoods of Maine. She was also a dedicated home hospice nurse for Miles Home Health for many years, providing care at any hour of the day or night that was needed.

No matter how busy or how far away she was, Joan always made sure to be there for her family, at every holiday and special occasion. She exuded a strong and independent spirit, along with a refined and classy character. She maintained a steadfast faith, attending St. Charles Catholic Church.

She is survived by her long-time companion Richard Dechant of Strattanville; sister-in-law Kathryn Klimek; brothers Robert (Shirley) and Christopher Klimek; sister Deborah (Thomas) Seidle; nephews Andrew (Mary) Wincko, Ray (Janet) Wincko, Ronald (Tami) Wincko,

Joseph (Diane) Klimek, Bryan Ruth (Tammy Allenbaugh) and Andrew Klimek; nieces Lora (Bob) Dunkle, Claudia Trainer, Teresa Cimilluca, Mary Klimek, Laura (Brian) Burford, and Erin (Chad) Shaffer; and cat Bella. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Ronald, sister Rosalie, and nephew Kurt Klimek.

She chose to forego any service and instead ask her family and friends to remember and celebrate their times together. For her spirit and memory to endure, we are to recall the times that we have spent together reflecting on her nursing adventures, enjoying her famous fried fish and chowder, playing Scrabble on Sundays, telling travel tales, or peacefully looking out at the Damariscotta River.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.alcornfuneralhome.com.