B. Joan Yetzer, age 92, of Shelby, died Monday afternoon, July 13, 2026 at her home following a lengthy illness.
Joan was born March 27, 1934 in Galion, OH and graduated from Galion High School. She took employment at Wilkins Air Force Depot in Shelby where she met her future husband, Richard D. “Whitey” Yetzer. They married June 5, 1954 and celebrated 66 years of marriage before his passing on October 14, 2020. She later worked for four years as an admissions clerk at Shelby Hospital.
Above all, Mrs. Yetzer found her greatest professional fulfillment serving as the secretary at St. Mary School from August 1, 1982 until her retirement on June 25, 2012. Like many school secretaries, she was the steady heart of the school, holding daily operations and relationships together while caring for students, parents, and staff with compassion, integrity, strength, and love. She treasured her years at St. Mary and the countless friendships, memories, and lasting connection they brought to her life. During her 30 years at St. Mary School, generations of students came to know Mrs. Yetzer as a kind, dependable presence whose office door and heart were always open. Joan also remained a devoted member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church for nearly her entire life.
It would be difficult to think of Joan Yetzer without remembering her delicious angel food cakes, which she generously shared with family and friends, along with cookies, pies, and countless other baked treats. She also enjoyed canning fruits and vegetables, with her homemade strawberry jam becoming a family favorite. Her giving spirit was equally evident in the Christmas stockings she lovingly crocheted, many of which still hang in the homes of family and friends each Christmas season.
Joan was an enthusiastic supporter of Ohio State football and The Best Damn Band in the Land (TBDBITL). For many years, she enjoyed attending games at Ohio Stadium, proudly cheering on her beloved Buckeyes.
Joan lived an active life filled with hobbies and interests that brought her great joy. She was incredibly social and loved gathering with friends for dinner, especially when it included a visit to her cousin’s restaurant, Fork & Fingers, for margaritas. She loved music, enjoyed playing bridge, and in her later years found great enjoyment in playing Rummikub. Joan also volunteered for many years as a Girl Scout troop leader. Above all, she was a faithful friend who was always willing to lend a helping hand.
Joan is survived by her children: Paula Chope of Powell, Diane (Rand) Dittmar of Upper Arlington, Douglas Yetzer of Shelby, Philip Yetzer of Bradenton, FL, and Brian Yetzer of Philadelphia, PA; daughters-in-law: Carol Yetzer and Daniela Kriva; grandchildren: Katie (Andrew) Zanmiller of Huntington Beach, CA and Andrew Chope of Powell; brother-in-law and sister-in-law: Jim and Betty Yetzer of Shelby; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to her husband, Joan was preceded in death by her father: Andrew Liscano; mother: Beatrice (Goff) Smith; and son-in-law: Ralph Chope.
Family and friends are welcome on Friday, July 17, 2026 from 5-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 10:30 am at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 29 West Street, Shelby, OH 44875 with Fr. Chris Mileski celebrating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary School.
Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or Facebook page.
Funeral Home: Penwell Funeral Home
Website: www.PenwellFuneralHome.com