Joseph S. Iwan, affectionately known as Joe or Joey, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2025, in King City, California, at the age of 75.

Born on July 25, 1949, in Gary, Indiana, Joe lived a life full of passion, kindness, humor, and service. He was a devoted husband to the late Karen Ponzo Iwan, whom he married in Toronto, Canada, in 1980. They shared 37 beautiful years together until her passing in 2017.

Joe was a lifelong educator, dedicating much of his career to teaching Spanish attending the University of Windsor for Political Science and the University of Toronto where he achieved his Master's Degree in Education. He had a gift for language, a heart for connecting with people, and a quick wit that brought joy to those around him. His sense of humor was legendary, and he delighted in telling jokes and giving quirky, unforgettable gifts to friends and loved ones. His friends were like family, and he appreciated each one for their uniqueness and their shared experiences.

A devout Roman Catholic, Joe's faith was a guiding force in his life, nurtured by his beloved time at Andrean High School. He was an active and devoted member of the church, finding strength, purpose, and joy in his spiritual community. He found deeply meaningful friendships with both Father Moffat and Fr. Larry Kambitsch. His commitment to service extended beyond his faith-he proudly served in the Peace Corps in Colombia, offering his time and talents to help others. Joe also had a deep love of travel and embraced the cultures and people he encountered along the way.

Joe cherished his family dearly, especially his beloved niece Stefanie Gallion and her daughters Kendall, Lillian, and Sydney. He took immense pride and joy in their lives and accomplishments, sharing a special bond with each of them. His love for them was constant and wholehearted, and his presence will be deeply missed in their lives.

He was a passionate Chicago Cubs fan, a wine connoisseur with a special fondness for Pinot Noir, and a lover of Indian motorcycles. He had a sharp mind and an abiding interest in politics, always ready for a thoughtful conversation or a lively debate.

He is survived by his brother, Eugene "Gene" Iwan, his wife Connie, and niece Stefanie Gallion and her husband Jason, along with their daughters Kendall, Lillian, and Sydney. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Karen, his sister Patricia Iwan, and his parents, Joseph L. Iwan and Ann Mary Stemler Iwan.

A memorial Mass celebrating Joe's life will be held on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Interment of ashes will take place on Tuesday, July 15, in Monterey, California.

In honor of Joe's life and legacy, donations may be made in his name to komen.org to support Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research, or to stjude.org to help fight children's cancer.

Joe will be remembered for his warmth, wit, steadfast faith, and unwavering generosity, and his willingness to help his friends. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.