Joann Bannister Schierman

JoAnn Schierman 86 passed away peacefully in her home with her kids by her side.

She died of complications due to lung cancer and a long battle with emphysema.

She was born in Bradley, Nebraska and moved to Walla Walla at very early age. JoAnn was married twice. The first marriage was to Norman Bannister whom she had 8 children with. Then her second marriage to Floyd Schierman who was an amazing man to marry her with 8 kids all under the age of 12; but then again she was a special lady. Both husbands are deceased.

JoAnn is survived by 4 daughters and 1 son; 1st daughter, Lauri Richardson of Walla Walla has spent the last few years completely taking care of her; Tim Bannister, her only surviving son of San Francisco, moved back less than a year ago to be with her. The other 3 daughters are Mary Pearson of San Diego, California, Trudi Reed of Vancouver, Washington and Cindy Zimmerli of Seattle, Washington. She has 6 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

JoAnn had worked hard at the pastime cafe for over 25 years up until it closed its doors about 10 years ago. That's where you could find her serving a good drink to her friends and family.

She loved playing cards and bingo. If you were lucky enough she would make you her famous German chocolate cake for your birthday. Fudge and pies were a family favorite; no one could make them like mom. Family was the most important thing to her.

She was preceded in death by 1 daughter, Cheryl Baumgardner; 2 sons, Johnny Bannister and Scotty Bannister; 1 grandson, Kevin Bowers; and 1 granddaughter, Kimmy Bannister.

There will be a gathering for family and friends to be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Walla Walla Community Hospice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder, Walla Walla, WA 99362.