JoAnn L. Westrick

JoAnn L. Westrick JoAnn L. Westrick, 79, died Saturday, July 31, 2010, after a short illness. She was born October 17, 1930. In 1969, JoAnn graduated from Wayne State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, after earning her nursing diploma from St. Vincent's Hospital School of Nursing in Toledo in 1965. JoAnn earned her Masters in Nursing focusing on adult mental health, in 1974 at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. JoAnn was a faculty member of the Michigan State University College of Nursing from 1975 until her retirement in 1993. A tenured assistant professor, she taught undergraduate psychiatric-mental health nursing. Before coming to MSU, JoAnn worked as a geriatric psychiatric nursing specialist at DePaul Hospital in New Orleans. Earlier, she taught psychiatric nursing at Touro Infirmary School of Nursing in New Orleans, 1971-72. She also prepared psychiatric nurse technicians at St. Vincent's Hospital in Toledo, Ohio, 1970-71. During the 1960's, she assisted missionary nuns and priests on the Caribbean island of Jamaica. After retirement, JoAnn worked as a massage therapist. JoAnn shared her gift of friendship with many, and served as a healer for all. She loved classical music, completing crossword puzzles, games of chance, her elegant cat Miss Sophia, and annual vacations on Beaver Island and in St. Pete Beach, Florida. JoAnn will be missed by her family and friends who will remember her as a master teacher and mentor having keen insight and practical wisdom. Her patience and extraordinary listening skills, coupled with empathy, touched many in need. Known for her convictions and deliberative approach, JoAnn's spirituality gave others strength. JoAnn is survived by Donna Hardenberg, her partner of 27 years. She is also survived by her son, Christopher Horrigan of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, and three grandchildren, Mary (Brian) Mahlia, Katherine Horrigan, and Edward Horrigan. JoAnn was the oldest of four children. Surviving are her sisters, Eleanor (Clem) Vascik, and Betty (Ray) Giles; and brother, Ken Westrick all of Toledo, Ohio; as well as nine loving nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held in East Lansing at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Solar Circle--sponsor of a solar oven workshop in Tanzania--at 4709 Woodcraft, Okemos, Michigan 48864.