JoAnn R. Boerner

JoAnn Boerner, age 90, of Massillon, Ohio, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, to be with her Lord and Savior, on October 28, 2025. She was born on December 4, 1934, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to the late Joseph and Lucy Swopa.

JoAnn graduated from Barberton High School and, before marrying her beloved husband Gene Boerner, she worked at Seberling Rubber Company.

JoAnn was a loving and caring daughter, little sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was the heart of her family and a source of warmth to all who knew her. With a joyful spirit and a gentle, kind soul, she touched the lives of many and will be remembered for her grace, humor, and compassion.

She loved to cook and took pride in preparing meals that brought her family together. She enjoyed many hobbies throughout her life, especially arts and crafts, decorating, and tending to her beautiful floral garden. She was also a devoted fan of her hometown Massillon Tigers, cheering them on with enthusiasm year after year. JoAnn loved dressing up for any occasion and brought beauty and color everywhere she went.

After her children were grown, she and Gene loved to travel with their close friends. They made an annual trip to Dale Hollow and created countless happy memories together during those cherished years.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gene Boerner; her sister Irene Pettitt (Jack); her brother-in-law George Madjerac; and her sister-in-law Susie Slater.

She is survived by her children: 

• Chris (Lynn) Boerner 

• Jeff (Nora) Boerner and their children Nicholas and Jenna 

• Tim Boerner • Amy Croston and her children Blaze, Logan (son Legend), and Kylie

She is also survived by her sister, Rosemary Madjerac; her brother-in-law, Bill Slater; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends — along with her beloved little Miss Magnolia (Maggie), her cherished Chorkie dog.

JoAnn will be profoundly missed and forever cherished by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness, creativity, and loving presence will remain in our hearts always.

Family will gather at the Paquelet & Arnold-Lynch Funeral Home, Massillon on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm and on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 from 10:00 am-10:45 am, with a graveside service at Brookfield Cemetery at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, you may send a donation to the Massillon Tiger Football Endowment Fund at: https://scf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=4577

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