Born on Feb. 9, 1943, Joann Marie, “Tilly” to family and friends, was one of eight children of the late Alfred and Glenda (Swain) Rusk. Tilly was a member of Canton High School’s graduating class of 1961. She grew up in Grover and was quite the tomboy; playing a lot of baseball and hunting deer with her brothers. Tilly learned a lifelong appreciation of nature early and found contentment being outdoors all her life.
On June 27, 1970, she married Melvin “Shack” Deitrick in the Ogdensburg Church.
For a time, Tilly worked for A & P Grocery in Elmira and the former Glamorize Sewing Company in Williamsport and Canton, but her heart was always where home and family were. She was an avid flower and vegetable gardener, bird watcher and loved animals, supporting several animal rescue causes. She was also interested in politics and a devoted Democrat.
In addition to her parents, Tilly was predeceased by two siblings; Bill Rusk and Patricia Bergquist; father and mother-in-law; Floyd and Ida Deitrick and a brother-in-law; Gene Deitrick.
Visitation was held Tuesday, June 4 from 12-2 p.m. at Pepper Funeral Home & Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Dr. Canton. Rev. Duane Taylor officiated the funeral service at 2 p.m. Burial will be private at a later date.
Those who wish may consider a donation in Mrs. Deitrick’s name to Happy Tails No Kill Animal Shelter, Inc. at P.O. Box 68 Towanda, Pa. 18848.
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