Joanne, your time with us was too short and you will be truly missed. Born in July 1954 in Berkeley Calif., Joanne died after a courageous fight with cancer Wednesday, June 16, 2010. Joanne grew up in Orinda, Calif., and graduated in 1972 from Miramonte High School. She loved the outdoors and spent summers with her family at their Fallen Leaf Lake cabin. She attended Cal Poly and applied her skills as a graphic artist. Joanne married "Woody" Woodruff, later divorced, and moved to Salt Lake City, Utah. She returned to California in 1994 and moved to Morro Bay, then settled in Paso Robles and married Dennis Van Ness, later divorced, and they had a beautiful daughter. She found great comfort with her faith and worshiped at Paso Robles Community Church. Joanne is survived by her daughter, Kendall Van Ness (12); mother, Susanna Wolfenden; brother, Allen Wolfenden; and sister-in-law, Megan Cambridge. She was preceded in death by her father, Leland Wolfenden. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 17, 2010, at Paso Robles Community Church, 2706 Spring St. in Paso Robles. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Angel Flight West, 3161 Donald Douglas Loop South, Santa Monica, CA 90405.
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It has been an honor and privilege to be able to pray, love and laugh with Joanne over the past few years. Her love and prayers for Kendall and family were heartfelt and touched every mother's heart. God is near and I pray His peace be with you. My deepest sympathy to Joanne's family and dear friends.
Renee Cook
July 17, 2010
Joanne was a good and faithful friend who stayed in touch over 30 years of passing time. I loved her and miss her! I am grateful that she came to know Jesus and is now at peace and with Him. I appreciate the support that her friends at PRCC gave her these last few years. I join the others in saying that I am praying for the family; it is hardest for those left behind.
Carol Eberhart
July 15, 2010
I came to know Joanne about two years ago and we enjoyed many good times togeather along with Kendall and their dog Hope. We barbequed and talked about everything. I will miss her. She will be remembered as a good person who spoke up for what she believed in and loved her daughter dearly. She fought a difficult battle and tried to help her to give her the support she needed and asked for. I will miss her. My thoughts and prayers go to Kendall and Dennis as well as Susan, Joannes Mom. Jeanne Pipenburg Paso Robles, Ca.
July 14, 2010
I loved Joanne and know she is with Jesus! She was such a loving person and a great MOM, Kendall don't forget us at PRCC we would love to see you anytime, and never forget the spiritual background your mother and friends encouraged you in!
Sharon Curran
July 13, 2010
July 13, 2010
July 13, 2010
I didn't know Joanne very well but I was able to pray for and encourage her in her marriage relationship because we shared some similar experiences. God has a purpose in her life and in her death, so don't be discouraged. Her life was not in vain. It is continuing to carry out God's purpose now and forever. May God bless and comfort you Dennis & Kendall.
Malani Anderson
July 12, 2010
Joanne was a wonderful, Christian individual who truly had a heart for God! We had many fun times together, concerts in the park,@ our homes,@ church,other events. You will be sorely missed, although we're to know you're in a much better place, it's our loss! Kendall, your precious angel, will be loved and looked after by many! God Bless you, til' we meet again, Suzanna "Suzie"
Suzanna Johnston
July 12, 2010
Until the last three months, we spent nearly every other Sunday having dinner, a walk up the hill and evenings by the bonfire solving all the world's problems. (At least for a few hours.)
We hiked at the beach's, around Paso and made one memorable trip to Sedona, AZ in April, 2008. I had never been and to go with someone who knows their way around, is the best way to travel! Joanne, Kendall and I packed a lot of hiking into four fun days.
She loved Kendall and always did her best to make the right choices for them both.
I will miss our long talks and her straight forward, honest way of sharing her heart with me.
Darlene DeLaVega
July 12, 2010
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