Joann Onufer Bales

Joann Onufer Bales passed away on June 23, 2025 in Novato, CA at the age of 100. She was two days shy of her 101st birthday. She was born in the northern coal mining town of Wanamie PA on June 25, 1924 to Julia and James Onufer. With her two older sisters, Joann left Pennsylvania and moved to Marysville CA. It was at Marysville High School, she met her future husband Bruce B. Bales.

She completed high school at the age of 16 and entered college of Holy Names in Oakland. She finished at UC Berkeley.

During WWII, Joann entered the cadet nursing program. She earned her RN degree from Highland Hospital in Oakland. In 1945 she and Bruce were married. After Bruce graduated from Boalt Hall (now UC Berkeley School of Law), they moved to Marin county in 1950.

While raising their family in San Rafael, Joann remained active in nursing, first at Herrick Memorial Hospital in Berkeley and later at San Rafael General Hospital and Ross Hospital. She then became the administrator at Cottage Retirement Home in San Rafael and later at Aldersley Retirement home (the Danish Home) also in San Rafael.

Joann was an amazing and supportive spouse, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Besides being a nurse for over 50 years she was also an outstanding cook and knitter. Her children and grandchildren were blessed to have had her in their lives for so many years. Joann’s warmth, wisdom, and spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was predeceased by Bruce, her husband of 68 years. Bruce was the District Attorney of Marin County for many years.

She is survived by three children: Dr. Thomas Bales (Suzanne) of Novato, Elena Bales of Novato and Bob Bales of Petaluma. Also surviving Joann are her grandchildren Dr. Katie Bales Balchunas (Rob) of Novato, Peter Bales (Jen) of Mill Valley, Diana Bales of Jackson Hole WY, Ross Bronfenbrenner of St. Paul MN and Will Bales of Sacramento. She was adored by great grandchildren Lola, Margo and Hadley Balchunas, Piper and Brooks Bales and Walker Pierce.

The family would like to thank Deb Waldt of Novato for many years of care during Joann’s later years. Thank you also to the staff and fellow residents at Deer Park Retirement Community in Novato.

Memorial donations can be made to UC Berkeley Foundation Bales Family Endowment, FW580600 in memory of Joann Bales. Please mail to: Berkeley Law, C/O UC Berkeley Gift Services 1995 University Ave #400, Berkeley, CA 94704-1070.