"Jo Jo", original image of a Lady Slipper by Zane Hrynewich, for a composition dedicated to his friend Joanne.
JoJo Zane Hrynewich
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JoJo

The Lady’s Slipper, (Cypripedium, Greek for “Venus’s slipper,”) is a rare wild orchid native to North America. Also called “Indian Moccasin” it can take 10 to 17 years for one to bloom in the wild. 

Like the Lady Slipper, JoJo was also rare. She was always ready to give, without expecting any reciprocation. She had a profound impact on all who knew her. 

Jo Jo and my wife, Velda were the poster children for the axiom “sisters from another mother”. Together, they embodied almost every cliché about close friendship. 

Tragically and suddenly, Jo Jo was snatched away from us by cancer. Her battle was short, but her spirit was always strong. I will always admire the way Jo Jo dealt with her illness. It was as if she wrapped herself in a blanket of calm acceptance. 

Jo Jo graced our lives with her smile, her kindness, her laughter, and her gracious, gentle soul. 

Thank you, Jo Jo….. Thank you SO MUCH!