Joan Frances Sonsini

June 1, 1918 to August 11, 2013

Longtime Resident of San Jose

Joan, 95, passed away peacefully Sunday evening at her home, surrounded by her family. She was born in Richmond, Indiana to Margaret (Rieser) and David Golden, the only daughter and third of eight children. Joan and her brothers Thomas and Phillip were born within a span of three years, and the siblings were close companions their entire lives. On November 3, 1939, Joan married Joseph Sonsini. Joan and Joe settled in San Jose and in 1945 moved into the home where she continued to live throughout her adult life. Joe passed away in 1974. She is survived by two children, David Sonsini (Carole) and Susan Sonsini Woods (Evan Rohrbough); was the beloved grandmother to five, Kara Woods Hamilton, Michael Sonsini, Gina Sonsini, Leslie Woods Marriner, Joseph Sonsini; five great-grandchildren Kalum, Josephine, Gavin, Audrey, Clementine; cherished aunt, great aunt and cousin to many and especially close to niece Liz Golden Cuevas, nephew Bill Golden, and cousin Don Bulla. Joan treasured her many friends, including Louise Endelos. Joan was the secretary to the cosmetology school at San Jose City College for 20 years. She was a parishioner at St Martin of Tours, an expert seamstress, a fabulous cook, and an avid card player. Her many interests included a love of worldwide travel and genealogy. Joan’s life will be celebrated with Visitation on Sunday, August 18th from 5 to 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 7pm at Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary, 466 N Winchester Blvd, and a Funeral Mass on Monday, August 19th at 10:30 a.m. at St Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 200 O’Connor Dr in San Jose. Interment will follow. Memorial contributions may be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital.