Joan M. Kipfer Obituary

Joan (Masner) Kipfer (88) passed away on August 4, 2025, at Rome Health with her family by her side. She was born on June 7, 1937, to Leloa (Manchester) and Rosco Masner. She attended the one room schoolhouse at Blackmans Corners School through the 6th grade. She graduated from Verona High School in 1954. Joan married Albert F. Kipfer in 1957, with whom she had four children.

She is survived by her daughters, Jacqueline (Anthony) Maggio, Judith Asker and Karen (Scott) Olney. Joan was preceded in death by her son Bruce and son-in- law Moses Asker. She was divorced in 1999. Joan has nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, all of whom were her pride and joy. She will be fondly remembered by her cherished nieces and nephews. She was employed in 1972 by the NYS Department of Labor in the Unemployment Insurance Division. She then worked for the Canals Division and lastly for the NYS Department of Transportation, she retired in 1999.

Joan was an avid cook and baker who especially enjoyed cake decorating with a talent for wedding and all occasion cakes. She was infamous for her homemade raised donuts. Joan was multi-talented in a myriad of arts and crafts. The dining room table was always covered with her latest projects. She was adept at knitting, crocheting, ceramics, leather working, macrame, sewing, painting, furniture refinishing and the list goes on. Joan was a voracious reader.

Beyond her family, Joan leaves behind a legacy of friendships, particularly with her close friend, Phyllis, her cousin Rita and niece Debbie.

The family would like to express gratitude to the compassionate and dedicated staff of Rome Health for their exceptional care of Joan during her stay at RHCF and for the care given in her final days.

Calling hours will be held on Monday August 11, 2025, from 1:00-2:00PM at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Rd. Rome, NY 13440. A funeral service will immediately follow at 2:00PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wright Settlement Cemetery, c/o Sally Ruby, 1709 Lincoln Lane, Rome, NY 13440.