Joanne Grace Eckenrode

Joanne Grace Eckenrode, née Patterson, 91, of Cuyahoga Falls, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026. Born on May 8, 1935, in Akron, Ohio, Joanne lived a life centered around compassion, dedication, and the simple joys that brought happiness to those around her.

A graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School and the Akron City Hospital School of Nursing, Joanne proudly devoted more than 35 years of her life to her career as a Registered Nurse at Suburban Community Hospital in Warrensville Heights, Ohio. Nursing was not simply her profession, it was part of who she was. Even long after retirement, Joanne continued maintaining her nursing certification, always considering herself, first and foremost, a nurse.

Joanne enjoyed spending time dining out with her nursing colleagues, shopping, and relaxing with her favorite soap operas on television. She also had a sweet tooth, "more chocolate" could have been her motto.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Vincent Eckenrode; her sister, Jean Violette; and her brother, Robert Patterson.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Gregg South; her brother, Thomas Patterson; her stepdaughters, Laura Skok (Greg), Maureen Kascak (Robert); sisters-in-law, Sharon Patterson and Yvette Hear (Charles); her brother-in-law, David Violette; along with many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Joanne will be remembered for her caring heart, dedication to others, and the warmth and humor she carried throughout her life.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Clifford-Shoemaker Funeral Home, with a funeral service to follow beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.