Josephine L. Noecker

NOECKER, Josephine L., of Bethesda, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 9, 2024, at the age of 93. Born in North Collins, NY, on August 2, 1931, she was the daughter of Mary and John Fricano. Josephine was the valedictorian of her graduating class at North Collins High School and went on to attend the University of Binghamton, where she pursued her passion for music and voice.

She was predeceased by her parents, her siblings Jeanette "Jeep" Geiger, Katie (Joe) Catalano, and Marion "Marza" Fricano, and her beloved husband of 55 years, Francis C. Noecker.

Josephine is survived by her four children: Mary Ann Guadagno (Robert Flashman), Kathrine N. (Juan) Nevarez, Cynthia (Martin) McHugh, and Julie Noecker. She was a loving grandmother to her cherished grandchildren: Amelia Holmquist, Dr. Sarah Boice, Maria Nevarez, Sean McHugh, Hannah McHugh, Martin McHugh Jr., Sophia Prout, Isabella Griffiths, Alec Samuel, and Julia Zia. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Luke, Isabel, Lillian, and Madeline.

Throughout her life, Josephine moved from North Collins to Baltimore, MD, and eventually settled in Rochester, NY, where she and her husband made a home. After the passing of her husband, Josephine moved to Bethesda, MD, to live with her daughter Mary Ann.

In her early years of marriage, Josephine was a devoted homemaker and mother. Once her children were grown, she joined her husband at the Noecker Insurance Agency in Rochester, NY, where she served as the Office Administrator. She retired in 2006, following the death of her husband.

Josephine’s greatest joy in life was spending time with her family, especially her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She also had a deep love for playing bridge and Scrabble. Her warmth, kindness, and love for her family will be missed more than words can say.

Friends may call on Friday, August 16th, from 5-7 pm at Wentland Funeral Home, 10634 Main St., North Collins, NY 14111. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am at Holy Spirit Church, 2017 Halley Rd., North Collins, NY. Interment will follow at Holy Spirit Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ASPCA in honor of Josephine's love for animals, particularly her cherished cats.