Joann, 92, of Bella Vista, AR passed away peacefully in her sleep after a short illness. She was born in Keystone, Iowa to Esther and Robert Bender and was the oldest of six children.

The family moved to Cedar Rapids where Joann went to Washington High School and then later met her future husband, Bruce Schweitzer. They later moved to Davenport, Iowa then on to Des Moines, Iowa for Bruce's work with Northwestern Bell Telephone Company. Joann worked for Northwestern Bell too for 25 years and was a Telephone Pioneer. Jo and Bruce retired to Bella Vista in 1979 where they used to vacation for many years.

Jo was predeceased in death by her husband Bruce, her parents, two sisters and two brothers.

She is survived by her sister, Sarah Breidert of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; her daughter, Becky Globokar (Mike, deceased); son, Scott Schweitzer (Lisa); and grandchildren, Daniel Globokar, Kate Meyer, and Thomas Schweitzer.

Jo enjoyed golf and bowling up until a few years ago, travelling, gardening, and she read voraciously. She was a good friend to many people going back to her roots in Iowa. Jo will be missed by all.

Jo will be interred at Bella Vista Cemetery beside her husband along with her little dog Sammy. There will be a small private gathering at that time.

Arrangements are being made by the Bella Vista Funeral Home and Crematory. Online condolences can be left at www.funeralmation.com.