JOAN QUACKENBUSH

JOAN QUACKENBUSH On Tuesday, March 12, 2019, Joan Cora Quackenbush went to be with our Lord after a short bout with cancer. She was born August 4, 1932, in Syracuse, NY, to beloved parents George F. Smith and Cora H. Langley, as was her younger sibling Frederick G. Smith. Joan grew up in a happy home and married Anthony Merluzzi, a U.S. Marine and Korean War vet, and had three children: Tony, Joanne, and Stephen. Joan also loved her work of 20 years with Crouse Hinds in Syracuse, and many more at the law office of Pena, MacDonald, Prestia, and Zipp in Edinburg, Texas. Even after she left Texas, she would regularly return to help balance the books. In 1968, she blended her family when she married William J. Quackenbush, who had two children of his own, Ann and Linda. Bill liked to move every three years while Joan kept the family grounded, which turned out to be quite a big job. Her family eventually grew to eleven grand and great-grandchildren. The final move was to Las Vegas, where Bill preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her son, Stephen. Near the end, she remarked to her best friend Elsie how grateful she was for the wonderful and full life the Good Lord gave her. To anyone who has had a kind word or thought for our spouse/mother/sister/daughter/friend or neighbor, we are eternally grateful. In lieu of flowers please send any donations to hospice in your area. It is a compassionate and caring organization. To leave an online condolence, visit www.shepardsonfh.com.