Joanne F. Vining, 85, of Toledo passed away peacefully Monday, January 27, 2025, at Otterbein Sunset House of Toledo surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Toledo, Ohio on November 19, 1939, to Joseph and Hermina Tavcar. She graduated from Waite High School in 1957. She met the love of her life, James Vining, at the Sports Center while out with friends. James and Joanne were married on September 18, 1965, in Toledo, OH

Joanne was the youngest and last of the "Bakery Ladies" born into an immigrant home and a family business, the National Bakery. Baker was her profession, and she was raised and trained in the business by her parents. She and her sister (Mary) took over the business, after the passing of their parents, until its sale in 1997. The bakery was an East Toledo, Birmingham Neighborhood icon known for its old-world breads and European pastries. Visiting the bakery was always a warming experience; from the baked goods, smells, and friendly conversation to the potential of being put to work making a quick stop sometimes stretch into hours. The bakery was a gathering place for neighbors and friends and a destination for people visiting the Toledo area. She loved the bakery and the bakery loved her.

She was deeply connected to her outdoor gardens and took immense pride in their color, diversity, and abundance. She had a gift for making things grow and was a source of starter plants for many. When she was not working in her gardens, she could be found planning and visiting garage sales around the area. She was always quick to start a conversation wherever she went and making friends along the way. She had a love and connection with animals, especially dogs, whose companionship she deeply enjoyed. She loved people, a family dinner, and just being together. She will be dearly missed.

Joanne is survived by her loving family son, Daniel (Patti) Vining; daughter, Maryann (Tim) Medley; grandchildren Eric Flores, Emily Vining, Madeline Vining and Bronson Medley. She was proceeded in death by her husband James, parents Joseph and Hermina Tavcar, sister Mary (Mariska) Danisovszky, brother-in-law Andrew Danisovszky, and dog Zoe.

A special thank you to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Mercy St. Anne's Hospital and Ashanti Hospice. To the administration and medical staff at Otterbein Sunset House, we are eternally grateful for your support and kindness and for making Sunset House her home for her last years.

Friends and family may visit at Epiphany of the Lord Parish, St. Stephens Catholic Church, 1880 Genesee St., Toledo, OH 43605 on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will take place following visitation. Interment will follow at Lake Township Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Joanne's name can be directed to Alzheimer's Association.