The storyline of Joetta’s life may have ended, but her legend will live on in our family and with her many, many friends. Joetta Lucterhand, age 70, daughter of Orville P. (Lucky) and Lenora J. (Doppelfeld) Lucterhand, passed away on July 16^th. She was surrounded by her immediate family, being loved right to the end.

Joetta was a quick-witted and humorous person, who could always turn the simplest of her observations into an intriguing tale. The funny way she saw the world around her was one of her many endearing qualities.

She was always caring and thoughtful of others, going above and beyond to help. She had a special talent to remember a wish mentioned half a year prior, that would happen to show up at Christmas or your birthday.

This feeling of loving and giving will be best summed up in her own thoughts penned earlier this year:

“September 26, 2018, was a day where my life changed forever. I found out I had two forms of cancer. Prior to this day, my life had been rich, rewarding, fun, and exciting. I’ve met many wonderful people from all walks of life, and from all over the world, who are still close friends today.

Wealth is measured in so many different ways…by how much property you own, or the car you drive. OR, another way, is by family and true friends that honestly care about your mind, body, and soul. Even without a lot of money, I was the wealthiest person ever.”

Joetta was a Ball State graduate in Home Economics Secondary Education. Prior to that she attended St. Lawrence grade school, and Lafayette Central Catholic High School (Class of 1970).

She joined Eisner Grocery Stores in Indianapolis shortly after her college graduation and stayed with the organization through all the corporate transitions to Jewel, then American stores, then Albertsons. She was promoted all along the way, finally becoming a floral buyer for Albertsons in Miami, responsible for acquisition and distribution of floral and plant products across the country. In her position, she travelled internationally to buy flowers and plants, including trips to Columbia where she was escorted by her own cadre of security guards – one of her favorite stories.

Eventually, she worked for floral growers based in the Miami area in a marketing management and floral design capacity. She returned to Lafayette in 2012 as office manager for The Assure Group. Finally, working for Franklin Pest Control before retiring.

Joetta was highly creative during her life and enjoyed ceramics, painting, and crafting. She loved shopping, especially for others, and was a great bargain shopper. She cherished time with family, especially spoiling her nieces and great-nieces. In turn, she would light up when they would spoil her back. She was always quick to agree to an outing or dining invitation with her wonderful friends, especially if it involved a special Indiana breaded tenderloin or catfish. Throughout her later life, she enjoyed the companionship of her cats, Rosie, Lucky, and Lizzie.

She is survived by her brother, Terry Lucterhand, sister-in-law, Maryann (Coughlin) Lucterhand, nieces Audrey Lucterhand and Rachel (Lucterhand) Schoonmaker (Husband: Brandon). “Aunt YoYo” had two great nieces, Elyse and Tessa Schoonmaker.

Special appreciation goes out to the medical heroes who worked with her during her cancer fight. This includes Dr. Taylor Ortiz and the team in the Franciscan Oncology Department. Joetta loved all of them and was always so grateful for the kindness and care they provided during her 5-year cancer journey. Thank you to the ICU staff who, in addition to the special care given to Joetta, provided clear communication and thoughtful solace to our family. We would also like to acknowledge the tremendous love and support that Joetta’s many friends have given her throughout this time.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Saturday, August 19^th, from 5pm to 8pm, Rush Pavilion at Columbian Park (1915 Scott Street, Lafayette, IN). A memorial ceremony will be held at 6:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, you may choose to donate to the following charities or a charity of your choice:

-Franciscan Health’s new cancer center via Franciscan Health Foundation (1501 Hartford St., Lafayette, IN 47904) to honor Joetta and support local cancer care (in honor of Dr. Taylor Ortiz and the Franciscan Health Lafayette Oncology Team).

-Community Ventures in Living, 60 Professional Court, Lafayette, IN 47905 (in honor of J.D., Ann, and Rick Wells).