Joan M. (Lehn) Donohue

WOODSTOCK - Joan M. Donohue, 93, of Ratterman Road, died peacefully on Friday, June 13, 2025 at her home. Born December 2, 1931 in Matamoras, PA, she was the daughter of the late Jacob and Helen Lehn.  An area resident since 1964, Joan quickly came to love the unique beauty of Woodstock and the Catskill Mountains.

Predeceased in 2017 by her husband of 61 years, Donald, survivors include three daughters: Sharon Donohue and her husband, Jeff Thane of Oradell, NJ, Patricia Donohue of Belchertown, MA, and Sheila Donohue and her husband, Andrew Thomas of Stone Ridge, and one son, Kevin Donohue of Kingston. Also surviving are two grandsons: Patrick Thane and Liam Donohue-Phaneuf, two sisters: Helen Schnier and Marilynn Carroll, and a brother, Robert Lehn, plus several nieces and nephews. Joan was predeceased by her siblings Barbara Newcomb, Jacob and Russell Lehn.

Joan will be remembered for her joy of life, boundless energy, and sense of adventure. As her older sister was known to point out, Joan fit many lifetimes into one. She loved to entertain and opened her heart to many friends from every background. She learned to ski while in her 30’s, and enjoyed a passion for music. Joan sang for decades with the choir at Christ’s Lutheran Church in Woodstock, where she was a long -time congregant, as well as with Ars Choralis. Further, she loved to bake ornately decorated cakes, and was adored by countless family dogs. Joan also loved bluebirds, butterflies and the color purple. In addition to trips throughout the US, Joan travelled to four other continents, often referring to a safari in Kenya as the most enchanting experience of her life. Kwaheri, Joan, beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend.

Her family extends heartfelt thanks to Joan’s devoted aide, Sabrina Komatu, Pastor Sonja Maclary, Hudson Valley Hospice, and Joan’s many steadfast friends for their compassionate care during her final months and days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Christ’s Lutheran Church, 26 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock, NY 12498 or to a charity of choice. 

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