Gommel, Joan, 88, of Boca Raton, Florida, passed away on April 8, 2021, after a long and courageous battle with end-stage renal failure.

Owner of children's boutiques, 'The School House,' first in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and, from 1975 onward in Boca Raton, 'The Elegant Child,' Joan was also an energetic member of the Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce. In 1980, in recognition of her outstanding service, her colleagues honored her with their 'Woman of the Year' award. In addition, following her retirement, she worked as a teachers' aide with autistic children at Coral Sunset Elementary School in Boca Raton. She was an invaluable school assistant and an inspiration to her students. Practical as always, she encouraged them to read by asking them, "You want to be able to pass the driver's test and get your license to drive, right?"

Joan will be lovingly remembered by her children, John, Linda, and Cheryl; grandchildren, Christopher; Nicholas and Cristy, his wife; and Alyssa; and greatgrandchildren, Donovan, Brody, and Madison. She is also fondly remembered by her son-in-law, Ed Jarrett, and her daughter-in-law, Sidney (Cindy) Gommel. Joan was predeceased by her brother, John; her husband of 32 years, Albert; and her sister, Jane Haentze of Harleysville, Pennsylvania.

A Memorial Service will be held at The First United Methodist Church, 625 NE Mizner Blvd. on Sunday, April 25, at 1:00 p.m. Donations may be made in her memory to The First United Methodist Church, 625 NE Mizner Blvd. Boca Raton, FL, 33432; or to Coral Sunset Elementary School, "in memory of Joan Gommel – ESC Program," 22400 Hammock St., Boca Raton, FL, 33428.

Professional arrangements by:
Gary Panoch Funeral Home
6140 N. Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33487

561-997-8580
www.gpanochfunerals.com