FOUNTAIN HILLS, AZ – Joani Michelle Kracker, age 52 of Fountain Hills, Ariz., formerly of Burton, passed away Wednesday, July 24, 2019, in Arizona.
She was born on Sept. 11, 1966, in Claridon Township.
Joan was a graduate of Notre Dame Academy in Munson Township and attended Kent State and Arizona State universities.
She worked in sales for Ford Motor Co.
Joan loved horses since she was a little girl and then she managed a small ranch in Arizona. She was an avid equestrian, being active in 4-H clubs and 4-H horse shows, riding quarter horses, participating in both English and Western events, as well as jumping-over-fences. She and her thoroughbred, Bently, participated in several Arizona horse shows.
As an athlete, Joan participated in seven full triathlons in Arizona and California, placing among the top three in her age group.
Joan will be missed dearly by her family and friends, including her loving mother, Jayne (nee Paryzek) Kracker, of Burton; two brothers, Thomas M. (Sheila) Kracker, of Boston, Mass., and Gary Kracker, of Newbury; uncle, Craig Shanower, of Burton; three aunts, Judy Chilkowski, of Parkman Township, Knettie (Philip) Archard, of Burton, Carole (Joe) Glade, of New Mexico; friend Douglas Eck, of Arizona; and several cousins.
She was preceded in death by grandparents, Jim and Helen Paryzek; and aunt, Helen Lockhart Shanower.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019, from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. at St. Helen Catholic Church, 12060 Kinsman Road, Newbury.
Sly Family Funeral Home assisted family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.slyffh.com.