Joyce Vaccaro

Joyce Vaccaro

Joyce Louise Vaccaro (née: Hartzheim) of Fountain Hills passed away after a short illness on Wednesday, April 24, 2013.

Joyce was born in Milwaukee, Wis. to Ervin and Loretta (Gamm) Hartzheim. Her daughter, Jody Marie Nicotera of Hollywood, Fla., grandson Nicholas Joseph Nicotera of Hollywood, Calif., son Paul Vaccaro, daughter-in-law Susan Vaccaro, and granddaughter Lisa Vaccaro of Viera, Fla. survive her.

Joyce was preceded in death by her sister, parents and husband, Dr. Joseph E. Vaccaro.

Joyce received a Bachelors of Science degree in nursing from Marquette University in Milwaukee. She spent many years as head of the pediatric nursing unit both at Milwaukee Children’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Milwaukee, as well as working in her husband’s pediatric practice which was located in Wauwatosa, Wis.

Joyce and Dr. Joe lived part-time in Fountain Hills beginning in 1976 and became full-time residents in 1986. Joyce shared an affinity for golfing, socializing, and sports.

A celebration (service) of Joyce’s life will be held at her home on Wednesday, May 1, at 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. A memorial will be held at 3 p.m. with a reception to follow.

Donations to the Maricopa County Animal Care Center would be a fitting tribute to Joyce who had a lifelong love and affection for animals: Maricopa County Animal Care Center, East Valley, 2630 W. 8th Street, Mesa, AZ 85201, or 602-506-PETS (7387).