JoAn Lee Gordon Vreeland

JoAn Lee Gordon Vreeland died peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, January 26, 2021. She was hospitalized and being treated for COVID. She was 86 years old. Raised in Tucson, Arizona, JoAn attended Tucson Senior High School and the University of Arizona and married her high school sweetheart, Walter Vreeland, who predeceased her in 2007. They were married for 53 years. While Walter built a career in life insurance, JoAn raised a family of five children in Placentia, California. Her household was remarkable for its love, laughter, and enduring connection. JoAn's professional pursuits were usually based on the needs of her family and close friends. She became a licensed art agent in order to assist her brother-in-law, who was a talented artist. For a while, at the request of a close friend and neighbor who owned a local franchise, JoAn managed her friend's business. Still, JoAn's enduring passion was her family. Her boundless love and positive energy was a gift to all who knew her. After both of them retired, Jo and Walt moved to San Jacinto, California. Having a love of luxury cruises, they traveled the world over. Together they explored the furthest reaches of the planet, including such diverse destinations as Russia, Hong Kong, Cairo, Bora Bora, and many others. When not traveling, Jo and Walt devoted their time to lovingly indulging their seven grandchildren. In 2017, JoAn moved to an assisted living, memory-care facility in Hawthorne, California, to be closer to her family. JoAn is survived by one daughter, three sons, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Hers was a legacy of love. Our universe shines brighter from her touch. She will be missed.