JoAnn Buckley (Heltne)

JoAnn Buckley (Heltne), age 71, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, in Everett, Washington. Born on November 22, 1953, in Devil's Lake, North Dakota, JoAnn lived a life marked by resilience, devotion to family, and unwavering faith.

JoAnn was the daughter of Ken and Winnie Heltne and grew up alongside her sisters Lonna Heltne and Connie Berdahl. She followed in her father's footsepts by dedicating 33 years of service to Burlington Northern, where she built a respected career. Later in life, she transitioned into Human Resources at Foss Maritime, continuing her professional journey with compassion and integrity.

A breast cancer survivor and liver transplant recipient, JoAnn's strenth was evident throughout her life. Remarkably, she passed away exactly 22 years after receiving her successful liver transplant - a milestone that symbolized both her courage and the gift of extended time with those she loved most.

JoAnn cherished her family above all else. She is lovingly remembered by her husband Dave Buckley and his daughter Melissa Buckley (Everett); her daughter Collin Revoir; son-in-law Adam Revoir; and granddaughter Trinity Revoir. She also leaves behind a large extended family who will miss her deeply. JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents Ken and Winnie Heltne; sisters Lonna Heltne and Connie Bergdahl; and daughter Jennifer Buckley.

A devoted Christian, JoAnn loved God deeply and held fast to the hope of being reunited with Jesus and those who had gone before her. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life's challenges and triumphs.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to organizations engaged in faith-based charitable work, such as World Vision - causes close to JoAnn's heart.

May JoAnn's memory bring comfort to all who knew them and serve as a lasting testament to a life lived with love, strength, and grace. A Memorial Service will be held on December 4, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Schaefer-Shipman Funeral Home 804 State Ave.