Joan Claire Toomey

Joan Claire Toomey passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 9, 2011, surrounded by her loving family. Joan was born in Faribault, North Dakota on February 1, 1930. She attended Hoover High School and was married to her grade school sweetheart Robert Jerome Toomey at Sacred Heart Church on September 2, 1950. She was loved by her devoted husband Robert, her five children and eleven grandchildren. She is survived by her husband Robert, with whom she had a remarkable love affair for 60 years; her son Michael, his wife Jeanne, their sons Ryan and Channing; her daughter Susan, her husband Dennis their children Matthew, Lindsey, Maggie and Marshall; her daughter Lisa, her life partner Beth, their children Cameron, Sean and Maya; her son David, his wife Helene, their children Gray and Cypress; and her youngest son John from Hawaii. She had a zest for life, spending time with her family and traveling. She visited Paris, London, Ireland, Scotland and Italy. She often visited her children in Seattle and Hawaii. She especially enjoyed her crafts, crossword puzzles, shopping trips that involved many returns to the store, and most of all laughing hilariously with her family and friends. She loved SDSU football games, especially the Notre Dame game. The tailgate parties were an amazing tradition. Joans life centered on family. She taught her children and their families many lessons. Joan was a wonderful homemaker, teaching all of her children to make a home, cook, sew and decorate. She was an exceptional role model- showing love and affection for her husband, which created a family environment of security and stability, giving her children confidence that has shaped all of their lives. She demonstrated unconditional love, nurturing, and support through so many of lifes experiences. Joan had a keen intelligence and taught her children to be involved in the world and its political affairs, and to make a difference. She was really proud of her participation in the annual San Francisco AIDS Walk. She encouraged her children to believe in themselves and to persevere in reaching their goals and dreams. She mentored her children and their families to be faithful and supportive. Her essence was kindness and sweetness, with compassion and caring for others that will we will cherish forever. She was our sweet loving angel, devoted wife, mother and grandmother, who is now with the angels in heaven. A celebration of her life will be held at Mc Aulay and Wallace Mortuary on Friday August 19th at 2pm. Fullerton, CA.