March 17, 1934 - April 10, 2007

In 1960 Joan Quatchak joined Sweet Adelines with the Golden Triangle Chorus that met in downtown Pittsburgh.  She soon became involved in a quartet singing baritone and the Crystal-Aires Quartet was born.  The Crystal-Aires included Carol Puskar (Joan’s sister) as Lead, Claire Hamley – Bass, Anita Kowalsky – Tenor, and Joannie “Q” as she was affectionately called by friends. The Crystal-Aires enjoyed many successful years on both the regional and international stages and ranked in the top 10 at International Competition for 10 years.

Over the years Joan held numerous administrative positions in both the Golden Triangle and the Greater Harmony Choruses, but she will be most notably remembered for directing the Greater Harmony Chorus (GHC) in Pittsburgh for 21 years.  Under Joan’s direction, GHC won the “Most Improved Chorus” honor in 1994.  In the 2000 regional competition, GHC won its first third place overall medal and its first gold medal as the Region’s first place Division AA (mid-size) chorus.

She held many Region17 board positions including Director of Musical Activities (DMA), and she attained the rank of Certified Director.

Joan had six children and six grandchildren and was preceded in death by her husband, Regis.   She will be missed; but she will always be remembered for her faith, friendship, and love of barbershop harmony.