A Mass of Resurrection for Sister Joan Phyllis Dyreks, OSF, was celebrated July 28 at Mother of Perpetual Help Residence in Shrewsbury. Sister Joan died July 16 at the age of 85. She faithfully lived out her consecrated life as a Franciscan Sister of Our Lady of Perpetual Help for 66 years.
Sister Joan was born to Urban and Mary Dyreks on Feb. 23, 1938, in St. Louis. She entered the Franciscan Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in 1954 and professed her final vows in 1960. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Webster College and a master’s degree in special education from Saint Louis University.
Sister Joan ministered in Catholic education as an elementary teacher, principal and early childhood director for 44 years. In the Archdiocese of St. Louis, she ministered at St. Bartholomew School, Villa St. Joseph Child Development Center and Sts. John and James School. She also ministered as teacher or principal in Chicago; Sioux City, Iowa; Monroe, Louisiana; Alamagordo, New Mexico; Montague, Michigan; Omaha, Nebraska; and Olathe, Kansas. Her love of life and all things fun made Sister Joan a popular educator wherever she ministered.
In 2001, Sister Joan became coordinator of retirement at Mother of Perpetual Help and Mary, Queen and Mother residences in Shrewsbury. The same love and devotion that she demonstrated as an educator was shown to her retired sisters in community as she met their physical, spiritual and emotional needs for 22 years.
In community, Sister Joan brought joy and delight to every gathering. She was the keeper of community stories from previous generations and was known for her culinary skills. A Franciscan woman of deep faith and prayer, she welcomed and respected all people and all of creation.
Sister Joan is survived by her sister, Marian (Mickie) Draugelis, her niece, Christine Pogue, as well as many loving family members, her Franciscan Community and numerous friends.
Burial was in Resurrection Cemetery.
