Joan Frances (Klaus) Haas

Our mother, Joan Frances (Klaus) Haas (October 31, 1928 to November 11, 2025), was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, by her grandmother, Sarah McLaughlin, and her mother, Frances Wilson.

She met her next-door neighbor, Matthew Haas, upon his return from the U.S. Navy following World War II, and they were married on February 1, 1947. Together, she and her husband, our dad, Matthew Haas (1926 to 2016), raised six children.

The family moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1965, and during that time built two beautiful homes together with the help of two of their children. Her children, Janalyn Reardon (Michael), Jamison Haas, Mardee Hughes (Michael), Carolyn Haas (James Leeper), Gregory Haas (Brenda), and Susan Pasqualino (Damiano), were the center of her life and her greatest joy.

She was happiest raising her six children and being a stay-at-home mom, providing a warm and loving home. She always made sure there were home-cooked meals and that the family gathered around the table every night. These family gatherings grew as she welcomed nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.

Her artistic talent was expressed in countless ways. A self-taught artist, she painted beautiful portraits of her children and still-life scenes in oil on canvas. On a day-to-day basis, her creativity shone through in her sewing; she made beautiful clothing for all of her children, including wedding gowns, prom dresses, and Halloween costumes. Her sewing didn’t stop there; she also made draperies for her home and upholstered many a couch and chair. She even spun wool to knit sweaters for her family.

She was an avid reader with informed opinions and extensive knowledge in many areas. Her love of family extended to the family pets and all living creatures. She had a particular fondness for wild birds and enjoyed identifying and learning about them. Whenever she was at her Florida home, she cared lovingly for her beloved feral cats.

She was a wise woman who imparted so much love, skill, and knowledge. Her spirit and influence will be carried in all of our hearts forever.