When you take a little time to look over your mother’s photographs and try to recall the many different things she told you over the years, you sometimes spot the little girl in her.
Joanne Marie Heinz was the eldest child of Leslie Eugene Heinz and his wife Donna Joanne Price. She was born December 6, 1942 in Petoskey, Michigan.
Joanne’s father was needed for the War effort, so she and her mother waited it out at her grandparents home, where she had a joyful time and was much spoiled by her extended family.
Joanne loved her dolls as if her own babies. She always wanted to be a Mother.
I had to put this photo in here even though blurred, because it was her. She told us kids over and over how she loved her dolls and practiced so she could be a good Mother to us.
As time went on she showed those around her what a bright child she was, her mind ever racing to please her parents and teachers.
Like every young girl, she had her insecurities, yet her mind was strong and it served her well throughout her life, as she had an innate ability to understand the things around her. 
Her school days were full of Music, Clubs and of course, Dances with her Arnold.
Here Joanne is with one of the many clubs she was in. She is in the second row, fifth from the left.
Her parents were active in the little community and wanted their children to be involved and have many interests. Service to others was natural to her and others were drawn into her circles.
As Joanne finished up her school days and entered married life, I am sure she felt scared down deep, but her faith in God never wavered and gave her strength.
Soon she was to embark on her life mission: A family she loved more than life itself.
Safety in the Fall 