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Joan Marie Snyder Flach, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, at her daughter’s home. She was 93 years old. Born in Buffalo on August 26, 1932, Joan lived a life filled with love, adventure, devotion to family, and lasting friendships.
Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald O. Flach, who passed away in 1977. Together they built a life centered on family, adventure, and shared experiences following their marriage on October 6, 1954.
She was the cherished mother of Judith A. Bourque and her husband, Frederick Bourque, and Susan M. Vidal and her husband, Michael Vidal. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Brian A. Bourque and his wife, Lindy Hope; Christopher Bourque; Alexander Vidal; Dominique Vidal; and Kyle Vidal and his wife, Katie. Joan was also blessed with the joy of becoming a great-grandmother to Hallie Rose Bourque, daughter of Brian and Lindy.
A graduate of Mount Saint Mary's High School and Bryant & Stratton Business School, Joan began her married life with Donald in Amherst before relocating with their two daughters to Mamaroneck in August 1967, where Joan would remain for nearly six decades until March 2026.
Joan enjoyed a successful career as a travel agent and owner of Four Seasons Travel in Mamaroneck. Her love of travel was not only her profession, but also one of her greatest passions. Through Donald’s work, the family had the opportunity to live in both Mexico and Brazil, experiences that deepened Joan’s appreciation for different cultures and people. Over the course of her remarkable life, she traveled to 54 countries, always embracing new adventures with curiosity and enthusiasm.
Beyond her travels, Joan found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid gardener whose beautiful gardens reflected her patience and care. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing tennis, and throughout her life she remained a devoted fan of the Buffalo Bills, cheering them on through every season. Most of all, Joan treasured her family. She loved living close to her children and took immense joy in attending her grandchildren’s activities, celebrations, and milestones. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love created countless cherished memories that her family will carry forever.
Joan will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, her generous heart, and the deep love she shared with those around her. She leaves behind a family who adored her and a legacy of love that will continue through generations.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Work Vessels for Vets www.workvesselsforveterans.org or National Park Foundation www.nationalparks.org would be appreciated.
Visitation will be at Coffey Funeral Home on Friday May 29 from 9:30-10:30AM followed by her Funeral Mass as Transfiguration Church at 11:00. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joan M. (Snyder) Flach, please visit our floral store.