Joanie M. Risch —————— § —————— December 13, 1944 - September 2, 2023 Joanie M. Risch passed away on Sept. 2, 2023, after a brief illness. She was born on Dec. 13, 1944, and spent her early years in Snohomish County, Wash., living her early adult years near Stanwood, Wash., on property that was homesteaded by her grandparents. In the early 1990s, Joanie met Dr. William "Fred" Risch from Anchorage, Alaska. The two were married on Sept. 1, 1993, and began their life together in the 49th state. Always willing to host folks from the Lower 48, it was not uncommon for Joanie and Fred to spend weekends at the cabin on the Kenai River with guests, enjoying reading, fishing, grilled cheese sandwiches and soup, and of course a huge bowl of potato salad. Joanie was an active member of the Alaska Women's Investment Network and the Better Investing Club of Anchorage. She enjoyed collecting unique crystal and china and had many displays of these around the house. Joanie was also known to quilt many blanket sets for the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Joanie is survived by her husband of 30 years, Fred; daughter, Tammi (Fred); son, Tom (Joy); stepsons, Brad (Ginger), Bryan (Kelly); eight grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. There was a memorial service for her Washington family and friends on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, at 1 p.m., at the Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27130 102nd Ave. NW in Stanwood. For her family and friends in Alaska, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1612 Ocean View Drive in Anchorage. The service will also be available to view remotely at Coslc.ws/memorial-service-zoom. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations to LSSA, 3305 Spenard Road, Anchorage, AK 99503; or to your favorite charity be made in her honor.