Joan Elizabeth Hohorst née Dorau, born Sept. 26, 1930, to Esther and Herbert Dorau, passed away Nov. 6, 2024, at the age of 94. She was the cherished sister of Jean Arnold, John Dorau and Jane McPhee.
Joan’s story began in Ridgewood where she grew up surrounded by the whispers of oak trees and the comforting embrace of close-knit neighborhoods and familiar faces. It was there, during a seventh-grade dance class, that 12-year-old Joan first met Henry Hohorst who was dancing with a broom. Their eyes met across the polished wooden floor and from that moment, a story of love and partnership began that would stretch across decades. Joan went home from that dance and announced to her parents that she had met the boy she was going to marry and she did, 10 years later, in 1953, beginning a life filled with warmth and shared dreams.
Joan’s commitment to lifelong learning led her to earn an associate degree in medical secretary studies from Lasell Junior College in Auburndale, Massachusetts, and a graduate degree from University of Colorado Boulder.
Her academic pursuits were not just achievements, they were extensions of her curiosity and dedication to helping others. This dedication was evident in her volunteer work at local hospitals, where her presence was a balm of kindness and reassurance.
She was a devoted mother whose legacy was reflected in the eyes and hearts of her children, Jim Hohorst, Bruce Hohorst and Nancy Martin.
Beyond the roles she embraced as wife and mother, Joan’s essence was captured in moments of genuine joy. Her cleverness sparkled in the games she loved to play, where her wit and thoughtful nature brought smiles to those around her. The sound of her laughter, warm and true, filled the room during these times, creating memories that linger fondly in the hearts of family and friends.
Summers spent on the coast of Maine were like chapters in her life, filled with salt-kissed air, the crash of waves against granite shores, and evenings painted with the hues of the setting sun. It was here, amidst the rugged beauty of the coastline, that Joan found peace and inspiration – a place that reflected her own deep and resilient spirit.
Joan’s heart was as loyal as it was kind, even sustaining lifelong friendships with some of her earliest classmates, five friends who called themselves the “Foolish Five.” These friendships, carried through the seasons of life, spoke to her unwavering commitment to love and connection.
Her leadership extended to serving as secretary of the board for the West Tennessee Railroad, where her dedication was as steady and true as the rails she helped guide. Joan is especially well-remembered for introducing many incoming residents to new friends in her role on The Atrium at Navesink Harbor Welcoming Committee.
A memorial service to celebrate Joan’s life will be held Saturday, Nov. 16 at The Atrium at Navesink Harbor in Red Bank. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor her memory. Condolences and messages for her family may be sent to joan@hohorst.net.
Joan’s life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and resilience – a story of joy that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She is survived by her husband Henry, three children, 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She leaves behind a legacy as bright and steadfast as a lighthouse on the shores she loved, guiding her family with her memory.
The article originally appeared in the November 14 – 20, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
