Joanne E. Townsend

Joanne was born January 4th, 1934 in New Leipzig, ND to Herbert Gideon Hertz and Hiske (Greve) Hertz. After the two met while she was attending Western Michigan University, Joanne and Jack Herbert Townsend, MD were married on August 18th, 1953.  They were to be married over 62 years and together raised four children, Jeffrey Lyman Townsend (Lisa) of Elkridge, MD, Stephanie Jo Townsend, formerly of Grand Rapids, MI, who predeceased them, Joel Herbert Townsend of Grand Rapids, MI, and Stephen Cronen-Townsend (Rachel) of Greenfield, MA.  Joanne was a longtime member and past President of the Waters Guild and served as well at the regional level representing hospital auxiliaries. Later she served on the Board of the Roger B. Chaffee Scholarship Fund and remained an Honorary Director at her death.   In 1999 she and Jack, recently retired, moved to the Montague area, where Jack was raised.  In addition to her husband, three sons and six grandchildren, Joanne was also survived by her brother Timothy Hertz (Nancy) of West Olive, MI.  A memorial service is planned for a later date.  Joanne's family would like to thank the very compassionate and skilled caregivers of Spectrum Health for the care they gave Joanne during her final days on this earth.   Gifts in lieu of flowers may be made to the Ehlers-Danlos National Foundation, 1760 Old Meadow Rd, McLean, VA 22102

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