Joanne worked for the Edison Light Bulb Company during her high school years. She graduated from Williamston High School in 1949.
She was married to Ray Oesterle on June 7,1952. She was a military spouse and stay-at-home mother. Joanne would volunteer to play the organ at the base chapels and various other churches they attended during Ray's military career.
After settling in Arizona in 1974, Joanne was the Administrative Assistant at Light and Life School, and eventually moved on to work at Phoenix Christian High School. She worked there until 1982.
Active in church, Joanne was a leader for the Women's Ministries and played the organ for church services and special events.
After her retirement, Joanne and Ray enjoyed traveling to many countries. They also filled in for furloughing missionaries in the Dominican Republic for one year.
Having a heart for service, Joanne volunteered as a counselor for the Crisis Pregnancy Center until she was 80.
When she and Ray moved to Fellowship Square, she helped make lap quilts for shut-ins and was active in Bible Study.
Joanne lived a full life and loved Jesus, her family, and friends.
Joanne is preceded in death by her husband, Ray. She is survived by her children, Jeanne (Glenn), Jan (Jim), Jeff (Rebecca), and Sue (Bill), plus 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. She is profoundly missed.
An Open House to celebrate Joanne's life will be held from 4-6 p.m., October 15, 2024, at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, 7924 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ, 85301.
