Joanne "Joey" Book

Joanne "Joey" Book, 94, of Washington, IL, died Saturday, May 14, 2022, at 12:40 pm at Carle Broemenn Medical Center in Bloomington, IL. On February 29, 1928, she was born in Peoria, IL, to Clifford S. and Francis M. (Fish) Book.

On July 23, 1948, Joanne married Spencer J. Wertz. He preceded her in death. Joanne was also preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Jeanne, and Patricia, two sons, Mike Wertz and Mark Wertz, and a stepson Bruce Schwarzentraub.

Surviving are her children Kathy (Gene) Butler, of Bloomington, IL., Tim Wertz, of Washington, IL., and Connie (Jeff) King, of Smithfield, IL: 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one great great grandson along with a niece, and two nephews.

Joanne was the oldest living descendent of William Holland, the founder of Washington, IL. Joanne retired from Caterpillar in December of 1990, where she wrote the parts and publications books for the D-9, and other large equipment. Joanne also started her career in 1944-1945 at the WWII Prisoner of War Camp in Washington. Joanne was also a member of the first graduating class from the new building Washington Community High School in 1946.

She was the best mother and grandmother anyone could ask for, and we adored her and will be missed by her family. We were blessed with her presence until the age of 94.

A Funeral Service is scheduled for 4:00 pm Friday, May 20, 2022, at Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington. Visitation will be one hour before her service also at the funeral home. Cremation will follow her service, and burial will be at a later date at Glendale Cemetery in Washington. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to American Legion Post #100 in Washington.