Joan Ann DeVries

Joan A. DeVries passed away on August 16, 2019, in Wenatchee, WA, after a long and brave battle with Multiple Sclerosis. Joan was born in San Francisco, CA, in 1941, to Haral and Ella Hansen. She graduated from Tamalpias High School in Mill Valley, CA. Several scholarships enabled her to attend Whittier College in southern California, where she met her husband. She and Peter were married in December of 1959. One of their first dates was to see Nat King Cole, making Unforgettable their favorite song. Joan and Peter had three wonderful children - a daughter and two sons. They were blessed with 57 years together before Peter's passing in 2017. Joan was a devoted wife and mother. Her life journey with Peter took her from Whittier to Chico, CA, where she graduated with honors from California State University, Chico, with a degree in English Literature. In 1972, they moved to Ukiah, CA, where her husband was the founding president of Mendocino Community College. Peter's career then took them to Big Bend Community College in Moses Lake, WA. At that time, the college had extensive overseas programs, enabling them to travel to Europe numerous times and also to Japan. In 1987, they made Leavenworth, WA, their retirement home and appreciated every day that they lived in such a beautiful part of the world. They continued their European trips until MS took its toll and Joan was no longer able to travel. Joan's special interests included hiking and backpacking, where she treasured the privilege of seeing the beauty of God's creation. Gardening was another favorite activity, especially growing dahlias so that she could surprise people with bouquets. For 13 years, she worked at the Wood Shop in Leavenworth, with ladies who became lifelong friends. She belonged to a women's running group in Leavenworth (known as the Lightfooters) and loved the morning runs from the Gazebo in town, and gathering for coffee after their run. She entered fun runs and half marathons and participated in Relay for Life for a number of years. Joan also organized and developed the library at the Nazarene Church in Leavenworth. Joan is survived by her daughter, Kerry (John) Harrington; her son, David (Marya) DeVries; and her son, Glen DeVries; as well as two half-sisters: Bonnie and Margaret. She had eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 9, 2019, at Light in the Valley Community Church, 8455 Main St., Peshastin, WA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Dwelling Place, 12686 Shore St., Leavenworth, WA, 98826 (see www.dwellingplaceleavenworth.org). Arrangements by Chapel of the Valley, Wenatchee, WA.

Joan Ann DeVries

January 19, 1941 - August 16, 2019