Joan Irene Thoreson

Joan Irene Thoreson was born, Joan Irene Langland Jan. 17, 1932 in Raymond, Washington. As a member of the Chinook tribe, she was raised on the Quinault Reservation and she was very proud of her Native American heritage.

Joan was raised with her sisters, Jerry, Sally and Lelah by her parents Eva and Henry. Prior to moving to Centralia in 1998, Joan lived throughout Western Washington as well as brief stays in Alaska and California. For over 55 years, Joan was a well-respected cook with many clients, who traveled far to enjoy her culinary skills.

In addition to food preparation, Joan had many artistic talents. Up until recent years, she enjoyed quilting, oil painting, crafting holiday decorations and most of all visiting with her grandchildren.

Joan was preceded in death by her son, Mark.

Her survivors include her husband of 45 years, Gordon; sons, Robert, Michael, Arthur and Steve; grandchildren, Sabrina, Robert Jr., Heidi, Amanda, Nicole, Mark Jr., Lidia, Trellin and Jack; and her great-grandchildren, Jesse, Kaylee, Kassie and Zeke.

Joan’s memory will be eternal based on her undying faith and the gift she gave everyone she met. She was a beautiful woman who had an unusual balance of intelligence, compassion, sense of humor and an un-stoppable work ethic. It is this strength that allowed her to fight and survive well beyond expectations. She finally allowed herself to go to rest on Sept. 5, 2015.

A funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m, Saturday, Sept. 12, 2015, at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, Centralia.