Joanne A Burkholder

Joanne A. Burkholder, age 91 of Lima, and formerly of Celina, passed at 2:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Lost Creek Care Center, Lima. She was born August 6, 1934 in LaPort, Indiana to the late Melvin E. and Elsie M. Blough Plank. On December 13, 1986 she married Robert E. Burkholder, who survives in Lima.
She was a graduate of Middlebury High School in Indiana, earned her undergraduate degree from Bluffton University, and went on to receive a Master's Degree in Education from Wright State University. Joanne dedicated her career to education, beginning as a 6th-grade teacher and later teaching 8th-grade English in the Celina Public School System, where she eventually retired.
Joanne and her husband spent over 25 years living in Florida, where they enjoyed fishing and participating in the local music scene. Joanne was a gifted singer and performed with several groups including the Lemon Bay Chorus, a Barbershop group, and the Sweet Adelines. A talented pianist, she also shared her time as a volunteer, helping with turtle egg conservation efforts along the coast.
In her younger years, Joanne played drums in high school and was an accomplished hiker. She was a proud member of the Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority during her teaching career.
A passionate lover of wildlife and nature, Joanne was an avid bird watcher, squirrel feeder, and dog lover. She will be remembered for her sweet, kind nature and the joy she brought to those around her.
Also surviving is a son – Kevin Scott (Josette) Ludwig of Holland, OH; 2 daughters – Cheryl Good of Paulding; Angela Smith of Celina; 7 grandchildren – Derek Ludwig, Alison Ludwig, Rachel (Matt) Sorosiak, Sara Smith, Jordan Good, Ethan Good, Elizabeth Good; 2 great grandchildren – Miles Good and Oliver Good.
The family will have a gathering from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, Cridersville.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.