Joanne Mae Swaback Brooke

Joanne is survived by her husband Robert Brooke, and her 5 children from her late first husband Ralph Swaback; William, Susan Krauser (Richard), Robert Swaback (Gaye), Brad Swaback (Lisa) and Sheri Klich (Dennis).

She is also survived by her grandchildren Nicolee Thompson (Paul), Kristi Stone (Ryan), Kelli Krauser, Monique Guthrie (Joel), Seana Scheid (Michael), Austin Swaback, Toby Shaw, and Brody Klich and her great grandchildren Alexiah and Alijah Thompson, Jaclyn, Brayden, Brooklyn and Colton Stone, Taylor and Taryn Guthrie, Maeve and Michael Scheid. She was preceded in death by her husband Ralph and her Grandson Mitchell Swaback.

Jo was the daughter of William and Grace Wolfgram. Jo was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 22, 1930. She married her high school sweetheart Ralph and they were married for 59 years. It was a wonderfully loving marriage with 5 children. A life full of love, music, and a lot of laughter.

She accompanied Ralph on piano in many church choirs and in The Swaback Quartet.

Jo was re-married to Robert Brooke in 2011 sharing their love of music, creativity, and faith in the Lord Jesus. Anyone who knew them could see how much they loved each other. True love birds.

Jo was an amazing mother, who always kept life fun. Her grandkids and great grandkids loved their Nanie JoJo dearly.

She had a passion for music and performing. As an incredible pianist, she performed and taught piano for many years.

In 1991, she won the Mrs. Illinois Senior pageant and finished in the top ten in the National pageant in Atlantic City the same year. She continued to work with the Mrs. Senior America pageant and served as President of the National Senior America Cameo Club, as well as the Arizona Chapter.

Jo was a natural, entertaining performer. Playing the piano, giving speeches with “Toast Masters," storytelling and performing comedic skits. Her music, writing and acting brought joy and laughter to many. Life was a stage for Jo and she was always the star.

The center of Jo’s life was always her faith and belief in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The world lost a shining star who will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered always!