Joanne Metz, 87, of Lakeview, peacefully passed away in her sleep early Saturday morning, Nov. 21, 2020, at her home.
Joanne was born on Nov. 11, 1933 in Detroit, Mich., a daughter of the late Thomas and Mary Ferguson. Her family then moved to Ohio, and she was raised at Indian Lake. She was 1951 graduate of Washington Local School.
On Aug. 8, 1964, Joanne married George Metz at Indian Lake Community Church in Russells Point. Their more than 56-year-marriage was filled with love and happy times, and the two were deeply devoted to each other. After raising their family, Joanne enjoyed traveling with George across the country and on a special trip to Ireland, her mother’s birthplace, Great Britain, and Europe. They retired together in 1987 and spent 26 winters as snowbirds in Mesa, Arizona where they truly valued being a part of the Desert Dawn community.
A treasured mother and grandmother, Joanne relished being with her family, hosting holidays, spending time with her grandchildren, and attending their many activities.
Joanne enjoyed quilting, crafting, sewing, rock painting, bocce ball, playing cards, collecting DeGrazia figurines, tending to her beautiful rose garden, and a hot cup of tea.
Always on the go, she was an avid walker who especially appreciated her daily walks on the path along Indian Lake.
She was an active member of Indian Lake Community Church, being involved in Ladies’ Aide and was a Deaconess. She was also a member of the Indian Lake Women’s Club. Before retiring, she enjoyed her work at Indian Lake Insurance and Kennedy Dental.
In addition to George, Joanne is also survived by two daughters, Deborah Tussing of Jackson Center, and Melinda (Taylor) Mattox of Gahanna; two step-children, Stephanie (John) Boyer of Gadsden, Ala., and Jeff (Pam) Metz of Bennington, Ind.; grandchildren Scott (Kelli) Baker, Matthew Tussing, Julia Mattox, and Caroline Mattox; six step-grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; nine step-great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and special neighbors, Charlie Banning and family. Joanne is preceded in death by a sister, Marian (Lowell) Miller, and three brothers, Bill (Kate), Ray, and Larry.
Joanne’s family expresses a special thank you for the help and care given to Joanne the last several years by Melissa Dennis and the many other caregivers whose help allowed Joanne to stay at home.
Pastors Karen Blackburn and Jim Ellington will conduct funeral services at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2020, at Indian Lake Community Church in Russells Point. Visitation is Tuesday, Nov. 24 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Shoffstall Funeral Home, 205 S. Main St., Lakeview, and one hour prior to services at church. Burial is in Huntsville Cemetery. Due to state COVID-19 pandemic guidelines, attendees are asked to be symptom free and wear a facial covering.
Memorial contributions may be given in Joanne’s name to Indian Lake Community Church.
Arrangements are in the care of Shoffstall Funeral Home, Lakeview. Condolences may be expressed at shoffstallfuneralhome.com.