Joan Makas, 90; enjoyed the dance of life
Joan Makas and her husband had a Saturday tradition: Turn on the radio and dance the polka around the home they made for themselves and their four girls in Tacony.
Joan Makas and her husband had a Saturday tradition: Turn on the radio and dance the polka around the home they made for themselves and their four girls in Tacony.
Through the good times and bad, she danced. Even after a leg was amputated three years ago and she had to use a wheelchair, she kept on dancing, right from her seat.
"She had a love for life and people that was just incredible," said daughter Denise Gallo.
Mrs. Makas, 90, who also had four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, died at home Wednesday, Aug. 31, from complications of an infection due to circulatory problems.
The youngest of eight children, Mrs. Makas was born Joan Jendzurski and raised in Port Richmond. She graduated from a secretarial school, where she learned shorthand, typing, and office work, according to her daughter Cynthia.
After school, Mrs. Makas worked at the Philadelphia Quartermaster Depot, which provided the military with clothing, flags, and other supplies. She then got a job working the front desk at a radio repair store. It was there that she met her husband, Julius, who also worked at the store.
"She was working at the desk, and she would see him passing by and would do things to attract his attention, like drop a pencil," Cynthia Makas said.
The two had daughters Barbara Lynn and Andrea Fiordaliso, in addition to Cynthia Makas and Gallo. He died in 2004.
"She was inspirational and determined," Cynthia Makas said. "She taught us that we can do what we want."
Mrs. Makas, who moved to Northeast Philadelphia 30 years ago, was an exceptional cook who liked to make Polish dishes, and often baked cookies for her family and neighbors. Music was one of her passions, and among her favorite songs was Eric Clapton's version of "Alberta."
She loved playing card games with her grandchildren and recently taught one of her great-grandchildren how to sew.
Makas' family said that through her they learned strength, courage, and acceptance, especially after the leg had to be amputated.
"She instilled in us that whatever life throws at you, whatever happens, you have to accept it and carry on," said Cynthia Makas.
About a month ago, when doctors told Mrs. Makas that she needed to have her remaining leg amputated or risk a fatal infection, she said, "Enough is enough," and decided to forgo the surgery, said Gallo.
"The doctor told her she'd be in a lot of pain, but she never complained," Gallo said. "That was one thing I really admired. She knew what was coming and she stayed true to what she wanted."
A viewing will be from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 10, at the Visconto Funeral Home, 2031 Vista St. A Funeral Mass will follow at noon at Resurrection of Our Lord Church, 2000 Shelmire Ave., Philadelphia 19152.
Donations may be made to Resurrection of Our Lord Sanctuary Fund at the above address, or to Holy Redeemer Hospice, 12265 Townsend Rd., Philadelphia 19154.
215-854-4225
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