As a teenager and babysitter in the late 60's, one of my important mentors was Mrs. Joan Fetter, the attractive and charming mother next door. 

For example, it was Joan who first introduced me to local musical theatre by encouraging me to get involved. She drove me to the theatre company and got me into props and later encouraged me to try out, successfully, for a part in the chorus.  What she gave me was a needed boost of confidence and a life long appreciation of musical theatre.  

Once, I rescued a little black puppy from a freezing shed and drove home with him on my lap. Not having a clue of what to do with him, since I knew my parents would not take in another dog, I knocked on Joan Fetter's door.  When I held  the little, shivering, ball of fur out to her and blurted out the poor puppy's plight, she simply, reached out and  took him from my arms into hers and that was that.  Because of her generosity of spirit, that puppy lived and thrived under her and her family's care for many years to come.  Forty years later, I am still involved in pet care and rescue and still looking for people like Joan Fetter.  

I moved away from the area in 1979 and lost all contact with Mrs. Fetter, but as in "It's A Wonderful Life" she probably never realized how her deeds and life effected other lives and the course of history.

Joan, you were one-of-a-kind and I miss our long telephone conversations discussing every issue on the planet and then some.  We will miss your spirit and creative mind.  You helped us a great deal during a very challenging time in our lives and I'm forever grateful.  Your love for your family was admired.  

Rest in peace and enjoy your coloured cloud as you have earned it.

Joan was a lady who always spoke her mind and over flowed with creative energy.  She was an integral part of the publicity department of Hamilton Theatre Inc for many years and was in charge of the decorating committee when the building was renovated in 1987.  She will be joining a wonderful group of talented and creative HTI alumni.   Ciao

Auntie Joan, we will miss you.,  I remember the first time I made your Seafood chowder that you always made for Christmas, was checking on an ingredient, it was the butter, and you exclaimed, yes Chrissy you have to put the whole pound of butter in.  I did, and it was almost as good as yours!  Be in peace, love neice Christine Fetter

Dear Aunty Joan,  we will miss you always, but will remember you everytime I make COOL soup.  You are not gone, just away.  Love you till always.  Dave, Karen, Jeffrey and Trisha.  Love and hugs, Teresa, Danny and Jenny.  xoxo

Our condolences to the cousins and their families and those who knew Joan.She was an independent spirit who I enjojyed being with as a kid and to talk to when I was home visiting Mom and Dad or on leave from the military. I share your sense of loss of part of our  family. I will miss and remember her.
Cousin Ron(Ronnie) and Dale Duckworth.

Joan was a great lady that made every one feel welcome at H.T.I. Always there to help and with a smile. My parents loved to work with her and enjoyed all the years at the theatre because of people like Joan. She will be missed by all. I'm sorry for the family's loss and hope they remember what a great lady Joan was.
Matt Metcalfe

OBITUARY

Dorothy Joan Woods Fetter

December 31, 1939 – July 1, 2012

Marlatt Funeral Home, Swackhamer Chapel

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services