Like an artist’s brush to a palette, Joan I. “Joanie” Trease, painted her world with love, kindness, dedication, creativity and much humor. Joanie left this world and was rejoined in Heaven with her beloved husband, Richard and her children, Thomas and Cathy Hull on May 8, 2025.
She was born February 23,1941 in Mansfield to the late Walter Ira and Martha Pearl (Greer) McDanel. Joanie graduated with the Madison High School class of 1959 and later attended Mansfield Business College. She received her executive secretarial degree on June 6, 1969, during a commencement banquet at the former Leland Motor Hotel and was recognized as valedictorian of her class. During her career as a Medical Technician with the 179th Tactical Fighter Group of the Air National Guard at Mansfield Lahm Airport, Joanie received much recognition for her outstanding work. In 1991, she received The Ohio Commendation Medal for her remarkable leadership ability in assuring all medical services continued without interruption while the Medical Squadron was activated in support of Operation Desert Shield.
Her passion in life was painting. One day, while shopping with her mother at a local craft store, Joanie happened to notice a schedule for painting classes and on a whim decided to sign up for a beginner’s class. From there her interest bloomed and she eventually decided that her favorite art forms were wildlife and portraits in oil. Her talent led to her receiving many accolades. Most noted were numerous blue ribbons and three Bests of Show at the Ohio State Fair for her portraits. She was an active member of the Appleseed Paint Pushers, a local chapter of the National Society of Tole and Decorative Painters, and Heart of Ohio Tole chapter in Westerville, Ohio.
Joanie truly loved her church family at Diamond Hills Baptist Church and enjoyed helping with various church activities when she was still able to attend.
Those that remain to cherish her memories include three stepchildren, Becky (Will) Newland of Ostrander, Ohio, Buddy (Lynn) Trease and Ryan Trease both of Mansfield; three step-grandchildren, Taylor (Ryan) Stoner, Clark and Ella Newland; two step-great grandchildren, Sawyer and Rowan Stoner; two sisters, Phyllis (Talmadge) Gee of Roundup, Montana and Bonita Sue (Ken) Conaway of Mansfield; several nieces and nephews; and her many dear friends.
Besides her parents, beloved husband and children, she was preceded in death by her brother, Edward Ira McDanel.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Wedgewood Estates and Hospice of the Western Reserve for the loving care bestowed upon Joanie.
Calling hours will be held Wednesday, May 14, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Diamond Hills Baptist Church, 647 S. Diamond Street, Mansfield, OH. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the church with Pastor Chris Thomas officiating. Burial will be in Bellville Cemetery, Bellville, OH.
Memorial contributions may be made to Diamond Hills Baptist Church.
Werner-Gompf Funeral Services, 1106 Park Avenue East, Mansfield, is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.wernergompf.com
Funeral Home: Werner-Gompf Funeral Services, ltd.
Website: www.wernergompf.com