Joan Agrawal (née McLean), a cherished daughter of Andes, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2024, at the age of 81, in her new home in Los Angeles. Born on Nov. 15, 1943 in Andes, Joan spent her formative years in the heart of the Catskills, where she developed a deep love for the great outdoors and the close-knit community that shaped her values.
Joan was the eldest daughter of dairy farmer John and Lillian McLean and grew up alongside her two younger sisters, Mary Ellen (deceased in 2022) and Nancy. Her early years on the Dingle Hill family farm instilled in her a strong work ethic and an appreciation for the beauty of nature, which she later expressed through photography. A bright and curious student, Joan attended Andes Central School, where she excelled academically and graduated as valedictorian of her class.
In 1960, Joan left Andes to attend the University of Chicago, where she earned an undergraduate degree in mathematics in 1964. During her time there, she met her husband, Khazan Agrawal, who emigrated from India to study at the university. The two fell in love and were married in 1966, building a life together in Chicago.
Joan began her career in consulting before welcoming her first son, Kaitan, in 1972, who was joyfully celebrated in the Hyde Park Herald as the first baby born that year. She later embarked on a long and successful career at the University of Chicago Hospitals. While working full-time and raising her family, Joan pursued further education, earning an MBA through the University of Chicago’s part-time program in 1976.
After living in Chicago for over 50 years, in August 2024 they relocated to Los Angeles to be closer to their son Kalin and his family.
With her partner-for-life and partner-in-crime, Khazan, Joan was a devoted mother to her two sons, Kaitan and Kalin, their wives Misbah and Janny, and a loving grandmother to Tasha, Zahra, Saif, and Bodhi. She took immense pride in her family, cherishing every moment spent together. A fabulous cook, she preserved traditional recipes from her Estonian roots while embracing new flavors and cuisines from India and around the world.
Joan had a lifelong love for the great outdoors, a passion that began in the hills of Andes and continued throughout her life. She delighted in capturing the beauty of nature through photography, a hobby that connected her to her roots and brought joy to others. She brought people together with her warmth, intellect, and deep generosity.
Joan is survived by her husband Khazan; her sons Kaitan and Kalin and their wives Misbah and Janny; her grandchildren Tasha, Zahra, Saif, and Bodhi; her sister Nancy; and several beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
She is predeceased by her sister Mary Ellen and her parents, John and Lillian McLean.
Joan Agrawal’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, love, and resilience. She will be remembered always for her bright smile, her compassionate heart, and the legacy of love she leaves behind.