Evelyn Joanne Saffeels was born December 23, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan to Aubrey and Edith VanHook. At age 5 months she went to live with her aunt and uncle in Lafayette, Indiana after her mother passed away. She moved to Russellville, Indiana where she graduated and married. She moved to Springfield in 1951 where she lived until her death.

Joanne, as she was known by family and friends, was proficient in classical piano and taught piano for many years.

She was a member of Walnut Street Christian Church where she worked at Crosslines for 39 years with her husband, until his passing,

Joanne is preceded in death by her parents; her husband George; and her brother James VanHook.

Joanne is survived by three children, Gail and husband Don of Oklahoma, Mark and his wife Sherry of Republic, MO and Dave of Springfield; sisters Connie Riddle, Indiana and Rena Rippe, Springfield; a brother Carl and his wife Donna of Marionville. Joanne is also survived by 8 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren plus one on the way; and special friends Jeff and Sheila Shaffer.

The family extends a special thanks to Jennifer McBride, social worker, Jeri Stevens, RN and James Thomas, Chaplain of Phoenix Hospice.

In Lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to In Time of Need Foundation in care of Phoenix Hospice 1839 E. Independence St. Springfield, MO 65804.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Friday, March 10, 2023 at Walnut Street Christian Church, 2201 W. Walnut Springfield, MO 65806. A graveside service will follow at White Chapel Memorial Gardens, Springfield.