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Jo Adams Obituary
Jo Anne Hanson Adams, age 59, passed away on Sunday, February 13 at her home in Soquel after a lengthy and incredibly courageous battle against breast cancer. Jo Anne was born on April 18, 1951 in Berkeley, California, and she was a 40 year resident of Santa Cruz County. She attended Richmond's De Anza High School from 1965-68 and graduated from San Jose's Leland High in 1969. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree and a Graduate Certificate in Painting from U.C. Santa Cruz.
She is survived by Dane Adams, who was her best friend and devoted husband of 23 years; step-children Seth [Susana] and Kelly [Patrick]; her father Bill [Lile'] Hanson; brothers Jon [Nancy] and Rick [Fay] Hanson; step-brothers Bob [Laura] and Dave [Mary] Sheldt; grandchildren Evan, Gabrielle, and Augustus; many nieces, nephews, and relatives in-law; and friends too numerous to count. Her family and friends will never forget her and all the wonderful moments they shared through the years. She was preceded in death by her mother Joy in 2006.
Jo Anne was an employee of Safeway for more than 25 years, but her passion was art and she cherished the time she spent painting. She was an active Signature Member of the Plein Air Painters of Hawaii, and she enjoyed participating in Santa Cruz County Open Studios. She drew much of her inspiration from the areas surrounding the two places she loved most: her homes in Soquel, CA and Hana, Maui. She leaves behind numerous works that will always remind family, friends, and patrons of her incredible talent and the beauty and love she exuded.
In lieu of flowers her family asks that donations be made to "Stand Up 2 Cancer" through the organization's website at standup2cancer.org. A celebration of Jo Anne's life will be held at her home for family and friends on Saturday, April 2.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jo Adams
stephanie statom
March 15, 2012
Jo Anne was my angel at UCSC. She helped me leave my lousy boyfriend in Boulder Creek and invited me to move in with her and her crazy kitty Zanza. Our house in Capiltola was a refuge where I learned from Jo Anne how to love and take care of myself. She was for me a special sister who believed in me and my Art. Both she and Dane were very important to me . I am so sad to find that JoAnne is no longer here . I still feel so connected to her and now know that when I die she will be there to greet me. Dane I love you and would love to talk. You must miss that wonderful woman.
my sincere sympathy,
Stephanie Statom
Tom Sutton
January 1, 2012
I worked with Jo Anne at Safeway. She inspired me to leave and take another job. I will miss her very much. Tom Sutton
April 5, 2011
Dr. Popilsky and staff remember Jo Anne fondly and wish her family and friends comfort in happy memories.
Melissa Gwyn
March 24, 2011
Oh Dane, I am so sorry that you have lost your painting partner and creative pal. Jo made quite an impression on the Decker family and me when we met back in 2007. We were knocked out by her bold sense of humor and defiant creative spirit.
I want to send my condolences to Jo's family too. I'm so touched by the entries I've read. I'm sure she was a wildly fun cousin and a very favorite, memorable aunt.
Jim Petersen
March 15, 2011
Jo Anne, I know you are with us. I look at the beautiful painting in our living room, of the Andrew Molera hills and pathway bordered by eucalyptus, and I can see every gesture in paint, every observation that you made to bring this picture come so vividly to life. You are someone who sees, and I have always been in awe of that gift you have, and your generosity in sharing it with us. Thank you wherever you are in heaven, watching over us. Love to you and Dane, Jim
Miriam Hitchcock
March 8, 2011
Heart felt condolences to Dane and Joann's family. I met Joann just a few times but it was clear to see what terrific attitude and energy she brought to life and all those around her. Have faith, Joann will always remain with those who loved her.
Karin Tomasovich (Hanson)
March 1, 2011
I will miss my cousin VERY MUCH. I remember her showing me how to paint MANY years ago, but the main thing I remember was her hugh heart!! I was happy to see her after many years when her and Dane came to visit my family on the East Coast - I just wished I could have been able to see her more!
I'll miss you Jo! I LOVE YOU!
Love your cousin Karin
March 1, 2011
We'll never forget your positive outlook on life and your glowing personality! I always saw you with a smile on your face. You were a wonderful neighbor to the Smiley family for many years!
Love, Hollie Smiley Cabral
Walt Wolansky
March 1, 2011
Even as JoAnne fought for her own health, she encouraged me to visit my elderly dad in his nursing home. JoAnne's love for nature and its beauty should be a model for us to follow.
Though I have never met her, I am forever grateful to JoAnne for renting her home in Hana on Maui to me so that I could experience the peace and beauty that is Hana. My condolences to Dane and all relatives of JoAnne.
Jon Hanson
February 27, 2011
We will never forget you Jo. You're the only sister I ever had but you're the only one I'd ever want.You will be in MY heart until the day I take MY last breath. And my life will be the better for it. Thank you for believing in me & helping me to believe in myself. I owe you so much & will do my best to live up to your high expectations.
And thank you to all who have commented here & acknowledged your love for Jo Anne as well.
Her loving brother.
jo-jo, i miss you so much. love, evan
evan setzer
February 27, 2011
Debbie Morton
February 27, 2011
Much Love and Heartfelt Prayers from Texas! I've asked God to send a team of angels from Texas to watch over, lift up and comfort you and your family! We Love You! XOXOXOXOXO Debbie and Josh
February 27, 2011
JoAnne was an inspiration to us all. Her bright smile & positive attitude always made her a pleasure to be with. Her strong spirit will continue to be a wonderful source of energy in our caregiving.
The Dominican Outpatient Oncology Nursing Staff
Susi and Dan Downey
February 26, 2011
Thank you Jo Anne for being our beautiful friend. We love you.
Susi and Dan Downey
Nick Hanson
February 26, 2011
I love you Aunt JoAnne. You will be sorely missed.
Nick Hanson
February 26, 2011
To the family,
I was very sorry to read about your loss. I hope you can find comfort in the words found at Isa. 33:24 which say that soon no one will say 'I am sick.' You have my deepest sympathies.
The Bourke family
Anne and Andrew
February 25, 2011
So sorry to hear about JoAnne's passing, Dane. You're both very much in our thoughts right now. xoxo
Frank & Karen Crivello
February 25, 2011
To Dane, Seth, Kelly & Bill,
Our thoughts are with you at this time. We share many memories as coworkers and friends. Jo Anne was a woman with a warm spirit whom we are happy to have known. We are especially happy that we were able to visit with Jo Anne recently.
With cherished memories,
Frank & Karen Crivello
February 25, 2011
We love you Auntie Jo and we will miss you very much! Lots of Love, Kevin & Mindi
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