Anita Cora Joerger

Traverse City – Anita Cora Joerger “Nana,” 100, died July 30, 2026, at the French Manor LaFranier Facility. Anita was born May 10, 1926, in Union City, New Jersey. She was the daughter of Cora and Frank Quinton and the older sister of Joan McCourt. She was the mother of two daughters, Diane Goss (Lawrence Goss) of South Carolina and Deborah Lynch (Joseph Fisher) of Elk Rapids. She was also the grandmother of John Lynch of Traverse City, who is married to Domonique Lynch, and Nana cherished the time spent playing with her great-granddaughter, June Lynch.

She attended Union City High School and received perfect attendance awards along with her diploma.

Anita met Henry Joerger (“Hank”) at a USO Square Dance in New York. They were married on November 28, 1947 (Thanksgiving Day – a day off) and were happily married for over 60 years before Hank died on September 4, 2010.

Anita was an amazingly talented woman. Not only could she make Italian magic in the kitchen, but she loved to dance and was a consummate seamstress. She sewed Easter Sunday dresses for her daughters in their youth. Her sense of humor was infectious.

Anita and Hank moved and traveled around the Country for his sales position. They eventually moved to the Traverse City area to spend more time with their family. Never one to stay idle, in retirement she managed the Hallmark Card Shop at the Northland Plaza for many years. This was a perfect fit as she sent many cards to many, many people throughout her life.

She packed picnics each day while on the family travels throughout the United States. She always put her family first.

Anita had many friends and two lifelong friends that she survived. She was selfless with helping her friends and family, and kind and patient to all that she met.

She was a lifelong Catholic and her faith in God was devout and strong. Anita ensured her family had the opportunity to learn about faith and love.

A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. A private family memorial will be held in her honor.