JoAnn Marie Tom, 91, of Columbia City, passed away Thursday, June 11 2015, at Miller’s at Oak Pointe, Columbia City. Born on Jan. 17, 1924, in South Whitley, she was the daughter of Russel Dimmick and Eva Wanda (Bretsinger) Dimmick.

She was born and raised near South Whitley, eventually moving to Larwill where she graduated from Larwill High School with the class of 1942. In 1954, she moved to Tri Lakes, where she made her home for many years. She moved a final time in 1992 to Columbia City where she had resided since. For nearly 30 years she was employed as a clerk for General Electric in Fort Wayne. She waitressed for a number of years and had been an office clerk with The Collection Company from 1985 until her retirement in 2003.

JoAnn was a member of Thorncreek Bethel Church of God and an avid reader, especially of mysteries. She was known for the flower gardens around her home and her love for animals, to whom she was always a caretaker, no matter what kind.

Survivors include her daughter: Beth E. Shoda, Columbia City; seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; half sister: Linda (Larry) Tackitt, South Whitley; half-brother: Jerry (Janice) Dimmick, Mich; and former son-in-law: Gary Pfeiffer, Columbia City. She was preceded in death by her parents; daughters: Karen Tom; and Jeanne Pfeiffer; son: Richard Grunstad; sister: Betty Jean Dimmick; half-brother: James Dimmick; and special friend: Vassie Tom.

A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, June 19, at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, Columbia City, will calling hours from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Certified Funeral Celebrant Sharon Brockhaus will officiate. A private burial at South Whitley Cemetery will take place at a later date.

Memorial gifts may be given in JoAnn’s memory to Whitley County Humane Society or to the activities department of Miller’s at Oak Pointe. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.