She was born at the beginning of the Great Depression in Michigan to Clyde and Velma Cowles. After graduating high school, JoAnn attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. Her first employment was with the U.S. Register Company. In 1951 she met her husband, John at a social dance at the Moose Lodge. After they married in 1953 they worked together at their business JB’s Sheet Metal in Marshall, Michigan where she did all the bookkeeping. In 1966 they decided to move to Santa Barbara, California with their young children, Steve and Joni. They soon moved to San Jose and Los Altos in Santa Clara Valley where JoAnn worked for the United States Post Office. When John retired they moved to Escondido and eventually they settled in Arroyo Grande where she worked as a Realtor and attended Grace Bible Church. After retiring JoAnn volunteered many hours at the food bank in Oceano and the Arroyo Grande Hospital.
She loved outings with her family and many friends, traveling, Scrabble, crossword puzzles, gardening, enjoying nature and playing with her grandchildren. Her smile shined as bright as the sun and her kindness would melt away any sorrow.
For her family she was their rock, she gave her love unconditionally. She led with kindness and respect. Her faith steadfast. Her grandchildren will remember her for her antics and the many adventures they went on together. Their motto was, ‘What happens at Grandma’s stays at Grandma’s.’
Her life was filled with grace, she spread hope and kindness, now she is home with her Lord Jesus. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
JoAnn is proceeded in death by her husband John of 55 years and survived by her sons, Steve (Lucy) of Morgan Hill, CA and Tony (Marti) of Grand Blanc, MI; daughters, Peggy Secory (Michael) of Spring Lake, MI and Joni Benakovich-Hall (Steve) of Arroyo Grande as well as 12 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
At JoAnn’s request, in lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Five Cities Food Pantry located in Grover Beach, CA (805) 473-3368.
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