Sister Mary Joan Terese ND 4689 PDF Download
Carole Helen Niklas
Immaculate Conception Province, USA
Date and Place of Birth January 1, 1937 Cincinnati, OH
Date and Place of Profession August 16, 1958 Covington, KY
Date and Place of Death December 16, 2025 Edgewood, KY
Date and Place of Burial December 22, 2025 Covington, KY
“Blessed are they who hope in the Lord”. (Psalm 1)
Carole Helen Niklas was lovingly welcomed as the youngest in their family by John and Johanna (Busch) Niklas. Growing up in a warm and nurturing home alongside her sister and two brothers, Carole’s early years were filled with faith and family.
Her journey with the Sisters of Notre Dame began during her time at St. Martin Elementary School in Cheviot, Ohio. After graduating from Mother of Mercy High School, Carole entered the Sisters of Notre Dame on September 8, 1955. At investment, she was given the name Sister Mary Joan Terese.
Sister Joan Terese earned a BA from Edgecliff College in Cincinnati, Ohio, and later an MA in religious studies from Providence College in Rhode Island. Her ministry spanned decades of dedicated service, including fifteen years in education, teaching elementary and junior high students in Ohio and Kentucky. She then furthered her ministry as director of religious education, guiding faith formation in multiple local parishes. Next, she devoted over eight years at Gateway Community and Technical College, supporting students with special needs through the Department of Support Services.
Sister’s compassion extended to several specialized ministries, including outreach to the deaf community and to men in prison. In 2005, Sister Joan Terese began service as archivist for the Covington Province of the Sisters of Notre Dame, preserving the rich history of our congregation until her retirement in 2019.
Sister’s life was marked by unwavering faith, a love for learning, and a deep commitment to serving others. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and devotion to God’s work.
Sister Mary Joan Terese passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025. May she rest in the love of our good and gracious God.
