Joan Lee Greenwell Heller

Heller, Joan Lee Greenwell Age 82 Died Sunday, April 19, 2009 in Chagrin Falls, OH. Joan, who was born in Minnesota, married her first husband, First Lt. George Griffin Greenwell, the father of her daughter, Catherine (Greenwell) Heller Watterson in 1947. A pilot in the USAF in World War II and the Korean War, Greenwell was shot down and presumed dead in 1952, and was awarded the Purple Heart and the Air Medal (of Honor). As a young widow and single mother, Joan became a trailblazer in the world of equipment sales for the 3M Company in Minnesota. She broke through the glass ceiling of traditional womens' roles to become a consistent sales leader and newsmaker by 1956. She married (the late) George W. Heller in 1957, who died just before their 40th wedding anniversary. She is survived by children, G.P. Fred Heller, Catherine Watterson and husband, David, Julia Heller Povilaitis and her husband, Romas, and daughter-in-law, Kerchen Heller, married to son, Paul W.T. Heller (deceased). Her loving family also includes 13 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. She is survived by her brother, Howard and his wife, Earline Lee, and 6 nieces, nephews and their families. She was predeceased by her brother, Roger, and his wife, Bernie. Her family and friends were inspired by her tireless energy and special devotion to family and her enthusiastic spirit of volunteerism for her church family and community, wherever she lived, in more than 6 states. Her love and support has always been a constant in our lives. Her 82 years were packed full of love and laughter. Her compassion and exuberant enjoyment of life will be with us forever, and she will be greatly missed. A memorial service and burial will take place at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis, MN on May 9 at 2PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests anyone who would care to send a donation to either Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 17989 Chillicothe Rd., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 or Alzheimer's Association P.O. Box 74924, Cleveland, OH 44194-4924. Washburn-McReavy Davies Chapel 612-377-2203