Arla "Joanna" Vontalge, 79, of Wadena, IA died Saturday, June 20, 2009, at Maplecrest Manor in Fayette, IA. Joanna was born November 24, 1929, in Clarion, IA to William and Nica (Fay) Corkery. She graduated from Wadena High School in 1948. Joanna married Donald Vontalge on May 23, 1959, at St. Josephs Catholic Church, in Wadena, IA. They just recently celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary.

Joanna started teaching school in 1948, in a rural school in Fayette County, IA. She later attended and graduated from Teacher’s College at Upper Iowa University in Fayette, IA in 1975. She taught at various grade schools throughout her career. She retired from teaching in 1988, from Valley Community School District after teaching there 23 years. Joanna enjoyed her grandchildren and great granddaughter, cooking especially baking cookies with the grandchildren, trying new recipes, family gatherings and collecting cookbooks.

Joanna is survived by her husband, Donald of Wadena; daughter Pat (Mike) Smith of Arlington; son John (Alice) Vontalge of Epworth; four grandchildren, Kyla (Justin) Koons and Dylan Smith both of Arlington,Tanner and Jordan Vontalge of Epworth; one great grandchild, Jenna Koons of Arlington; twin sister Jeanne Singer of Fayette; six brothers William (Marilyn) of Coggon, Charles (Ila Lee) of Manchester, Paul (Beverley) of Dysart, Ellis of Lisbon, Tim, and Steve (Kathy) both of Wadena; and many nieces and nephews.

Joanna was preceded in death by her parents; brother Gregory in infancy; sisters Barb Vincent and Jane Wheeler; sister-in-law Sharon Corkery; brothers-in-law Gene Singer, Dr. M.T. (Doc) Vincent, and Jerry Wheeler.

Following committal services at the cemetery, a time of food and fellowship will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.