Joanne Barnes WATTS

Joanne Barnes Watts passed away on August 23 at the age of 93.

Joanne lived a fulfilling life with many adventures. Music, education, and civic responsibilities were embedded deep in her soul. Born November 15, 1929, Joanne was raised in Southern California where she eventually met her future husband, Rue Tikker. Joanne and Rue had five children.

As a mother, it was important for her to help them establish independence and allow them to experience the arts, develop a work ethic, take education seriously, engage in music, volunteer, and make a difference in our world. She set the bar high as she got her Master's degree at the age of 48 from Whitworth University and began working as a Mental Health Professional for many years.

Joanne was a YMCA Volunteer in the 1960s taking tours with high school students from California to the Bar 41 Ranch in Washington, and the Navajo Indian Reservation in Monument Valley, Utah. Being on the reservation with the Navajos was Joanne's happy place as she volunteered later in life at the reservation's school for many years. After coming back from the reservation Joanne initiated a scholarship for Navajo High School seniors that were planning on attending college. She was very proud of being able to give back to the Native community with her "Unite, Educate, and Empower" scholarship.

After moving to Washington, Joanne married Gus Watts. Joanne continued her community involvement and became a volunteer for the American Red Cross, a house parent at the Hutton Settlement, and a member of the local PEO Chapter.

An accomplished musician, Joanne played the piano, and violin, and was a part of two different orchestras in the Spokane Area. She also branched out and was in a quintet that played at many local spots and for her grandson's wedding. Her music filtered down to her kids as they all played the piano and other instruments.

Joanne touched many lives in her travels and life experiences. We, her children, are thankful for the opportunities she introduced to us and her heart for service which she demonstrated time and time again.

She was preceded in death by her husband Gus Watts, her sister Peggy Graham, her brother Dick Barnes, and her brother Morell Barnes Jr.

She is survived by her five children, Lue Ann Tikker (Peter Cooney), Pam Tikker (Jennifer), Dave Tikker ( Cindy), Paul Tikker (Donna), Claudia Jurgensen (Dana), her brother Stuart Barnes( Carol), 9 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of her life will take place at a private, family gathering in November.