Joanne "Nana Jo" Weller

It’s with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joanne Weller, affectionately known as “Nana Jo”, a caring and loving woman with a ready smile and always a kind word. She made everyone feel special. Dennis was holding her hand when she left us.

Joanne was born on January 3, 1944, in Tacoma Washington to John and Louise Freeman. She attended Catholic schools, graduating from Aquinas Academy in 1962. She went to the University of Washington graduating with a BS in medical technology. She joined Kappa Delta sorority and was president her senior year.

Joanne and Dennis met on a blind date in 1963 and were inseparable ever since. They were married in 1967 and soon started a family of 5 boys: John (Kristine), Mike (Cristy), Brian (Tammy), Mark (Nicol), Matt (Holly and Laura). She was “Nana Jo” to fourteen wonderful grandkids: Emily, Caroline, Luke, Colin, Nathan, Ashley, Abby, Quinn, Colby, Jack, Kyle, Raven, Lily and Maya.

Joanne was a very happy and welcoming person. She could always find a way to laugh at the little unexpected things in life, especially when the grandchildren were around. She was a wonderful mom and grandmother. Throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s, the Weller house was home to many neighborhood games and the driveway was often littered with bicycles from all the kids playing. Joanne provided an unforgettable childhood, and there are many with fond memories of growing up thanks to her.

She was also a wonderful cook. For five decades there were numerous family gatherings at the house in Lake Forest Park, including every Thanksgiving and Christmas since 1969. These were especially big meals with four generations from both sides of the family – plus in-laws and friends.

After the boys finished college, Joanne returned to work in the lab at Northwest Hospital. She immensely enjoyed her time there. Her interest in lab work inspired many in the family to pursue degrees in the sciences.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Barbara, son Mark and daughter-in-law Holly. Joanne leaves behind quite a legacy, with a close and loving family, who will carry forward her wonderful demeanor and her amazing example as a wife, mom and grandmother. We will all miss her very much.

Remembrances may be made to St. Mark Catholic School, Shoreline, WA