Joanne Fritzel

On October 18, 2012 Ellen Joanne Hoben Fritzel passed into eternal life.  She was born in Galesburg, Illinois on March 3, 1926, the daughter of C.J. “Pat” Hoben and Lillian Jordan Hoben.  She attended St. Joseph’s Academy, graduating in 1945.  She then moved to Chicago to work.  This is where she met the love of her life, Edward F. Fritzel.  They were married in 1948 and were the parents of seven “wonderful” children.  She is survived by daughters, Barbara (Mike) Linnenburger of Mt. Airy, MD, Anne (Brad) Meerfeld of Mesa, AZ, and Carol (Mark) Lohman of Keller, TX.  She is also survived by sons, Tony (Debra) Fritzel, Mike (Paula) Fritzel, Jim (Diane) Fritzel, and Patrick (Diana) Fritzel all of Keller, TX.  She is also survived by her brother, Terry (Irene) Hoben of Galesburg; 17 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Ed. Before moving to Watauga, Texas in 2004, Joanne was a very active parishioner of St. Patrick’s Church.  She was the church organist for over 20 years, with her husband Ed singing in the choir.  She was also a member of the Altar and Rosary Society, participated in RCIA, taught 1st communion classes and CCD instruction.  She was also known for her pineapple upside down cakes she always donated to bake sales. Joanne was the most wonderful mother, champion of the underdog, Notre Dame football supporter and self-less friend to all.  Our world is so much better for having Joanne in it.  She will be dearly missed. Visitation will be held 5-7 p.m. Friday, October 26, 2012 at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home, Galesburg.  The rosary will be prayed at 7 p.m.   Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday morning October 27, 2012 at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.  Rev. William T. Miller,IC will officiate.  Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.  The family requests memorial be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.