JoAnne L. Dressler, 78, of Mansfield, passed from this life on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Born on December 9, 1947, in Mansfield, she was the daughter of the late Julius and Anne (nee Gazdak) Bogdan.
A proud 1965 graduate of St. Peter’s High School, JoAnne went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in education from The Ohio State University in 1970 and later a master’s degree from Ashland College while raising her son and working at Jules Lounge, her parent’s restaurant.
JoAnne dedicated over 35 years to her students at Mansfield City Schools. Known affectionately as “Mrs. D” by her beloved middle school students where she taught both English & Math. In addition she led the work study program at Mansfield Sr High School. She left a lasting impact on her students both in and out of the classroom. Many students would continue to reach out to her even after they graduated.
One of the greatest joys of Mom is when she became a grandmother to Brandon and then again with Drew. She loved spending time with the boys and watching them compete in their sports and pushing them to excel in the classroom as well. The teacher in her never wavered. The boys would always spend a special week with her each summer, which were some of her best memories with the boys. She was one of their biggest fans.
A social butterfly who lived life to the fullest, JoAnne enjoyed entertaining both her family and friends. In addition, she found great joy in golfing and passed that love on to her son and grandsons. She was a member at Possum Run, Pebble Creek & Shelby CC where she aced #17 twice. Her travels took her to many locations in Europe including Rome, Ireland & the UK as well as many cruises. JoAnne was an avid card player, whether it was push rummy, euchre, or gin with family or playing in her bridge group. These were always highlights of her weeks.
Following her retirement, she cherished the 14 winters she spent in Naples, Florida, enjoying the sunshine and the company of many friends. She enjoyed hosting people and providing the Bloody Mary bar, many appetizers, wine parties and making dinners for her friends.
She is survived by her loving son, Brian (Susan) Fulmer of Cincinnati; two grandsons, Brandon (fiancé Katie O’Beirn) and Andrew Fulmer, both of Cincinnati; cousins, Marsha (Albert) Sigg of Mansfield and Malcolm Turzak of Pittsburgh; nieces and nephews, Laura Bogdan (Jon) Chapman and Emily (Brian) Owendoff; and a close-knit extended family.
In addition to her parents, JoAnne was preceded in death by her brother, David (Bonnie) Bogdan; cousin, Diane Turzak; and Aunts and Uncles, Virginia (Vincent) Tipul and George (Marjorie) Gazdak.
As many of her family and friends knew, JoAnne did things “her way” all the way to the end. In keeping with JoAnne’s wishes, no services will be observed but a Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Herlihy Funeral Home. JoAnne will be deeply missed by her family, her many friends, and her students who had the pleasure of learning from her.
Funeral Home: Herlihy Funeral Home
Website: www.herlihyfh.com