Joanne Carroll

Joanne Bockel Carroll, of Johnstown, PA passed away on July 29, 2015 at the age of 87 in Lebanon,IN surrounded by love and happiness. Joanne was the oldest child of George R. and Marguerite DeWees Bockel. Preceded in death by parents, husband, Thomas L. Carroll and sister, Dorothy Jeanne Bockel. Survived by daughters, Christine, married to Vincent Cagle (IN) and Amy, married to Douglas Rose (VA); 5 granddaughters, Jaquette Carroll (AK), Haley Marguerite Cagle (IN), Caroline Dewees Rose, Morgan Lizza Rose and Elizabeth Bockel Rose (VA); sister, Joyce Osborn (CA), many nieces, nephews and countless life-long friends. Joanne was a proud graduate of Ferndale High School where she made many friends. She graduated from Allegheny College in 1948 where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and continued to add to the list of "life-long" friends. When confronted with a choice between University of PA and Tulane University for a MS in Social Work, her father advised her, "if you want a great education choose University of PA, if you want a great education and have a really good time attend Tulane." In 1954, Joanne received her MS from Tulane University. Joanne returned to Johnstown to help her parents take care of her sick sister, Jeanne and to accept a position at Cambria County Welfare where she later became the youngest serving Director of the institution. She was honored as "Lady of the Year" for her work on the Foster Home Program for children. She would often reflect on the rewarding work and how it shaped her as a person. Joanne continued her professional career as a Supervisor at the Flood Relief Center and as a therapist for Cambria County Mental Health/Retardation/Drug and Alcohol. She immediately retired when her loving husband suffered a stroke, but at the age of 70 Joanne teamed up with another "life-long" Ferndale friend and ended her career as an Adoption Consultant for Children and Youth. Joanne often reflected on the kindness of all the families open to adopting the children she worked so hard to find forever homes. As a life-long resident of Johnstown Joanne believed in giving back to her community. She held positions on the Cambria County Department of Public Assistance, The White House Committee for Children and Lee Hospital and many local volunteer positions. Last but not least she was a proud and loyal Republican representing "The Greatest Generation" voting in every election. A Memorial Service in honor of Joanne will be held Sept. 5, 2015 at 10:30 at the Franklin Street United Methodist Church, 510 Locust Street. Johnstown, PA 15901. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Dave Thomas Foundation or The American Cancer Society's Hope Lodge in Baltimore, MD.