She was a devoted wife to Ralph Gertson Sr., whom she married on July 19, 1951, and together they built a beautiful life filled with cherished memories.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Walter Sr. and Pearl Meitzen; her brother, Walter Meitzen Jr.; and her sons, Joe Anthony and Gayle

■ GERTSON, 7 Gertson. She also mourned the loss of her grandsons, Clint Gertson and Bryce Korhonen.

JoAnn’s spirit lives on through her husband, Ralph; her siblings, Betty Kay Janow (Ron) of Eagle Lake, Marilyn Thomas (John) of Fredericksburg, Johnny Meitzen of Eagle Lake, and Sammy Meitzen (Tara) of Eagle Lake. She is also survived by her children, Ralph Gertson Jr. (Connie) of Eagle Lake, Darrell Gertson (Gail) of Eagle Lake, Andy Gertson (Susan) of San Antonio, and Becky Moulder (Bill) of Columbus, along with 13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She will be deeply missed by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who were fortunate to know her.

A woman of many talents and passions, JoAnn enjoyed singing, swimming, bowling, dancing, camping, and hunting. Her enthusiasm for life extended to games, including her beloved dominoes and participation in local bridge clubs.

A proud member of her community, JoAnn rode in the annual Trail Ride to San Antonio, showcasing her adventurous spirit. Beyond her personal pursuits, she dedicated her time to teaching twirling and swimming lessons and served as a Girl Scout leader, inspiring countless young lives.

JoAnn was also a committed volunteer, serving as a Red Cross CPR and First Aid Instructor. She was a charter member of the Colorado County Volunteer Ambulance Corp during its inception and a charter member of the Our Lady of the Fields Catholic Daughters. Her legacy of service continued as the historian for the Xi Pi Psi Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate JoAnn’s life at a service on Friday, February 14, at the Parish of Nativity Catholic Church in Eagle Lake. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. and Rosary will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the funeral mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Lakeside Cemetery, Eagle Lake, TX.

JoAnn’s spirit will be carried forward by her grandsons, who will serve as pallbearers: Ralph Gertson III, Matt Gertson, Rusty Moulder, Dillan Gertson, Drew Gertson, Tyler Gertson, Paul (Tre’) Cadriel, and RJ Zarate.