Joanie was born in Miami, Florida in 1952, the daughter of Allan and Eleanor Ziegler. She was the “baby” sister of Jan and Gary Ziegler who adored her throughout her life. The affection was overwhelmingly returned as they established a lifelong bond of love and friendship, which was extended to their spouses, Laura and Bonnie.
She graduated from Southwest High School in 1970. She then attended the University of Florida and majored in music, which was a passion that stayed with her throughout her life. Subsequently, she received her degree in medical records administration at the Research Hospital and Medical Center in Kansas City, MO. She then returned to Miami where she became Supervisor of Medical Records at Mt. Sinai Medical Center as well as (then) American Hospital in West Kendall. She later was instrumental in establishing the private medical practices of her husband, and her brother Gary.
Joanie met the love of her life, Dr. William Ditkowsky, during Yom Kippur services in 1974 at Temple Beth Am. The couple always felt that their marriage was blessed by God after meeting on that holy day. Fireworks truly lit the sky with their first date, for they were engaged six weeks later, married three months following, and had 40 blissful years of marriage together until her husband’s untimely death in January of this year. When their Rabbi united their souls as one, the couple truly took the pledge to heart, for they rarely left each other’s side.
In the summer of 1977, her first daughter, Rosie, was born, followed by Ellie, six years later. The girls brought their parents an endless amount of joy and laughter. Joanie was blessed with two wonderful son-in-laws, Benjamin Simon and Andrew Freedman, who were more like sons to her. Joanie was thrilled when she became Nana to grandchildren Sam, Annie, Henry, Will, and Jack.
Family was always the central focus of Joanie’s life. Her home was the gathering point for countless holidays, weekly Shabbat dinners, family get-togethers, and milestone events. Her doors were always open with loving arms and good food to her family and many friends.
Joanie’s selflessness was no more apparent than when she remodeled her house to care for her parents in the latter years of their lives. She never once complained and always felt privileged to be able to be there for these two people whom she loved so dearly. She dedicated her life to helping those around her. She was sincerely interested in the welfare of others and was always there with a listening ear and wise advice. There are so many grateful people who will sorely miss this wonderful human being!
Joanie is survived by her daughters, Rosie (Ben) Simon, Ellie (Andrew) Freedman, brothers Jan (Laura) Ziegler and Gary (Bonnie) Ziegler, grandchildren Sam, Annie, Henry, Will and Jack, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Services will be held on Wednesday, September 14th at 11 am at Temple Beth Am, 5950 SW 88th Street, Miami with internment to follow at Mt. Nebo Miami, 5505 NW 3rd Street, Miami, FL 33126.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Temple Beth Am Day School.
Arrangements under the direction of Riverside Gordon Memorial Chapels at Mount Nebo (Kendall), Miami, FL.
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