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Joan Alice Donen
Joan Donen Obituary
Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 17 Joan she was truly a miracle of modern science living an adventurous life that defied all odds. She was an avid sailor, skier, and motorcyclist who skied across the globe, rode her motorcycle to Alaska, bungee-jumped at 65 and with her husband, Jerry, circumnavigated the world in their sailboat. Many would say Joan had nine lives, each one lived with courage, laughter, and a boundless zest for life that inspired everyone who knew her.
Married for 55 wonderful years to the love of her life Jerry Donen, together they built a life filled with love and adventure. She is survived by her daughter Gail Kulp of Lake Havasu City, Arizona son Steven Donen of Minneapolis, MN, two granddaughters and four great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held in Spokane, Washington on October 30, 2025. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Diabetes Association and Chabad of Havasu.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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