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Jo Ann Fricke Obituary
Jo Ann Fricke (nee Martin), age 82, died on January 12, 2021 in home hospice, in Chicago, Illinois. Jo Ann was surrounded by family during her final weeks and transitioned with the same grace and strength all who knew her have come to rely on.
Jo Ann was born in 1938 in Burlington, Wisconsin and moved to St. Paul, Minnesota at the age of 18. When Jo Ann was 20, she relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where she lived the remainder of her life. She spent her early years singing on the weekends at Allen's Lounge and the Green Mill. In her mid 20's, Jo Ann married John Howard Fricke (deceased) and had three children, Cassandra, Gabrielle (deceased) and Scott. Jo Ann went back to school later in life to attain a BA and MA from Loyola University where she worked until 2005.
Jo Ann, ever a civil rights activist, traveled to Palestine in 2005 to assist with the film, "Waiting at the Gate" by documentary filmmaker Virginia Keller. This journey inspired Jo Ann's subsequent service with Christian Peacemakers. As a volunteer, Jo Ann spent 3-6 months in Hebron each year from 2008-2018.
Jo Ann is survived by her daughter, Cassandra, son-in-law, Mark, son, Scott, daughter- in-law Jaime, grandson Malcolm, sister-in-law, Linda, nieces, Liz, Nan, Kate, Jane, Stacy and nephew, Peter.
A memorial service to celebrate Jo Ann's life will be scheduled post pandemic. Until then, we ask that you all channel her wishes for peace and social justice for all.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Christian Peacemakers, in memory of Jo Ann. www.cpt.networkforgood.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jo Ann Fricke
bud courtney
January 11, 2025
over the years I have fallen in love with the band Wilco and despite being a NY Yankees fan I enjoy the Cubs. I am certain this Chicago connection comes directly from my relationship with Jo Ann and I believe that her spirit continues to speak to me through the arts, through the insanity of the sports world but most assuredly I believe her spirit appears to keep me on track of what is important in this world. Jo Ann cared and loved deeply and I am so thankful her gracious spirit still visits me. I do wish I could take her to Wrigley though
Angelique A O'Neal
January 11, 2025
Miss talking and meeting up with you for Lunch. Continue to REST in peace
Annette
January 11, 2024
Missing you my friend
Bassam Shweiki
August 18, 2023
She was a caring person, I'll always remember her sweet smile and loveable personality, she was like a big sister to me with her kindness ...
May she rest in peace
bud courtney
January 13, 2023
i met JoAnn when we were both in Chicago for training with Peacemaker Teams. we met each morning early and talked over coffee and soon became friends. i had the priviledge to be with her and her family when she underwent surgery and i was truly blessed to have been treated as one of a very loving,caring family.
we didn't speak as much as i promised her but she was so kind and forgiving and understanding.
it's always harder on those left behind but we can take great solace in all the goodness that JoAnn brought into this world and shared with so many.
Sue Weber
January 26, 2021
It was such a blessing to get to know JoAnn. She always had so much to share about the world and her family. She had a huge heart and I admired her dedication to world events- especially Palestine. Jo Ann will be surely missed. Love to Cassie and Scott and Malcom.
Marcus Armstrong
January 19, 2021
I trained with Jo Ann in Chicago more than a decade ago and knew her well as a gentle, precious and gracious soul - I valued our time together and sharing very much and I will always remember her.
God bless you Jo Ann. With love from Marcus x
Wendi and Dale
January 19, 2021
We feel so fortunate to have known Jo Ann. She touched so many people, including us. Find peace in your beautiful memories
Simone Taylor
January 18, 2021
Please except my deepest sympathies to you and your family at this time of grieving. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
bud courtney
January 18, 2021
I met Jo Ann on the first day of our Christian Peacemaker Teams training. we spent many early mornings sharing coffee and conversation. a deep friendship evolved. She spent a week at the NY Catholic Worker where I had the privilege of introducing her to Dan Berrigan. Dan was taken by her work in Hebron.
I was fortunate to visit her just before her surgery a few years ago and I met her family who were equally wonderful to me.
I loved her from afar. She had joy.
Annette O'Neal
January 18, 2021
My condolences to the Families. Jo will truly be missed by me. Love you and rest in paradise.
Annette O'Neal
January 18, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Jo was a wonderful friend who I will truly miss.
Marcia Dahl
January 18, 2021
JoAnn was a beautiful person both inside an out!
Always giving of herself to others!
Rest in peace lovely lady!
Tony Lala
January 17, 2021
Jo Ann was a good friend. ALways good conversation. I will miss her.
Tony Lala
Betsy Dwyer
January 17, 2021
I never met Jo Ann but had the great pleasure of befriending her amazing daughter Cas when both of our sons were in elementary school together in Northern CA, along with her very creative husband Mark. Sadly their time in CA didn’t last very long before they headed back to Chicago. I’ve kept in touch with Cas over social media and continue to be awed by the three of them. I am confident her strength of character and warm care and support came from her mother Jo Ann. I am confident Cas will continue to spread her spirit.
With sincere sympathy for Jo Ann’s passing.
Betsy Dwyer
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