Joanne Fischer

Joanne was born in Heavener, OK, on November 4, 1929, to parents Roy and Josie Knecht. She was the youngest of four children; Gilbert, Donald, Mary and Joanne.

Her childhood was spent with her loving family, many friends, playing outside and indoors playing with paper dolls and her tea set. She enjoyed music and sang in the choir, played the piano, clarinet and was in the high school marching band. She was active in her church and participated in many church activities. In high school, she earned the Girl's State award and was very shy and nervous giving her oral report on the experience. Joanne dealt with anxiety and shyness her whole life but was also strong and powered through life's challenges.

After high school, Joanne attended Hills Business College in Oklahoma City, perfecting the skills of a key punch operator. Her first job was at Tinker Field Air Force Base in Oklahoma. Her second job was at Garrett Airesearch (Honeywell today), in Phoenix, AZ, where she was chosen as one of the top two key punch operators to work in the engineering department. This is where she met Tony Fischer and they married on November 21, 1959. Two children followed; Julie Ann on September 2, 1960 and Eric Zahn on December 11, 1963.

Joanne provided a beautiful home for her family, had a variety of cooking skills and scrumptious recipes from her mother. She was a perfectionist seamstress and quilter, sometimes giving her treasures to family. Also, she volunteered in Julie and Eric's girl and boy scout troops. Joanne worked outside the home, part-time, at Prudential Life Insurance in Scottsdale for 20 years and retired in 1992.

Two grandchildren came; Christopher Puccia in 1988 and Mark Puccia in 1991. She was on a plane the days they were born and provided endless love and support, and her wisdom and advice was greatly appreciated. Joanne was also on a plane, visiting Eric in the many places he has lived in the U.S.A. She wanted to know everything about her family and friends and was an exceptional listener. Her unconditional love and devotion and sweet nature were admirable. She was a remarkable person that will be forever missed.

Joanne was preceded in death by husband, Antone (Tony) Fischer. She is survived by daughter Julie Puccia (Vince) and son Eric Fischer (Susan) and grandchildren Chris (Kate) and Mark (Jenn) Puccia and Susan's son Nate Cristan. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins, whom she loved very much.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10