Joanne E. Proper, 86, of Charleston Four Corners NY passed away on February 2, 2026 after a brief stay at the Palatine Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center.

Born in Canajoharie, NY on May 21, 1939 she was the only child of the late George H. Jr., and Isabelle (Cramer) Canfield. She attended Canajoharie schools.

Joanne married Verne G. Proper of Carlisle, NY her husband of 54 years before he passed in January of 2013. They were pre-deceased by a son, John, in January of 1987.

Joanne is survived by her son Jeffrey and her daughter Marianna, grandchildren Amanda DeAnda, Crystal Myers, Gary Rush and Lloyd Rush IV, as well as twelve great-grandchildren.

Joanne and Verne owned and operated Proper's LP Gas Service for several years. They enjoyed playing guitar at local establishments and camping near and far. Joanne was also active for a few years in local politics and owned a small country store before becoming employed at Kmart in Amsterdam, NY where she retired with 15 years of service. She was a past member and vice president of the Charleston Fire Department Auxiliary, was a leader of the Tip Top Tigers 4-H Club, and was a member of the United Methodist Church in Canajoharie. She enjoyed hiking and getting together with friends. Joanne had a lifelong love of animals and adopted several cats, Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus. She is survived by her beloved 18 year old Shih Tzu, Heidi.

Memorial donations may be made to the Ayres Memorial Animal Shelter in Sprakers, NY where most of her animals were adopted from.

A graveside service will take place in the Spring at the cemetery in Charleston Four Corners.