Joann "Tilly" Deitrick, 76, of Canton, PA passed away unexpectedly Friday morning, May 31, 2019 at the Guthrie Troy Community Hospital.

Born on February 9, 1943, Joann Marie, "Tilly" to family and friends, was one of eight children of the late Alfred and Glenda (Swain) Rusk. Tilly was a member of Canton High School's graduating class of 1961. She grew up in Grover and was quite the tomboy; playing a lot of baseball and hunting deer with her brothers. Tilly learned a lifelong appreciation of nature early and found contentment being outdoors all her life.

On June 27, 1970, she married Melvin "Shack" Deitrick in the Ogdensburg Church. For a time, Tilly worked for A & P Grocery in Elmira and the former Glamorize Sewing Company in Williamsport and Canton, but her heart was always where home and family were. She was an avid flower and vegetable gardener, bird watcher and loved animals, supporting several animal rescue causes. She was also interested in politics and a devoted Democrat.

In addition to "Shack", her husband of 48 years, surviving are two sons; Daniel Deitrick of Canton, Patrick (Heather) Deitrick of Blossburg, grandchildren; Ayden and Chelsie, five siblings; Jim (Sandy) Rusk and Tom (Lorraine) Rusk all of Canton, Marilyn (John) Terry of Rapid City, SD, Ted (Martha "Marty") Rusk of Wellsboro and Mary Jo (Bill) Calkins of Mifflinville, sisters-in-law; Clara Mae Rusk and Sherry Deitrick both of Canton, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; Nils Bergquist of Horseheads, Duane (Helen) Deitrick of Roseville and Robert "Chico" (Michelle) Deitrick of Canton, Hazel (Jim) Hebe of Portland OR, Suzie (Ron) McNett and Kay Jannone all of Roaring Branch, many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Tilly was predeceased by two siblings; Bill Rusk and Patricia Bergquist; father and mother-in-law; Floyd and Ida Deitrick and a brother-in-law; Gene Deitrick.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 4, from 12 - 2 p.m. at Pepper Funeral Home & Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Dr. Canton. Rev. Duane Taylor will officiate the funeral service at 2 p.m. Burial will be private at a later date. Those who wish may consider a donation in Mrs. Deitrick's name to Happy Tails No Kill Animal Shelter, Inc. at P.O. Box 68 Towanda, Pa 18848.