JoAnn Tomczuk

JoAnn Tomczuk, lovingly known to many as JoAnn, passed away surrounded by the legacy of love and friendship she spent a lifetime creating. She was born on October 21, 1934, in Hot Lake, Oregon, and moved to Lakeview, Oregon, while still in grade school. Lakeview remained close to her heart throughout her life, as did the cherished friends she made there. Those friendships endured for decades and joyfully evolved into what the group affectionately called their “menopausal retreat,” marked by laughter, deep bonds, and many memorable trips together.

JoAnn’s gift for friendship continued to grow during her years at boarding school at The Oregon Episcopal School and later at Oregon State University, where she continued collecting friends wherever life took her. It was at Oregon State that she met the love of her life, Bud. Their story was one of patience and certainty—after ten years of dating and thoughtfully deciding they were truly right for one another, they married in 1959. Both would later say it was the best decision they ever made.

Together, JoAnn and Bud built a beautiful life and raised three daughters: Monique, Michelle, and Manette. Family was at the center of their worlds, and Christmastime held a special place in their home. The annual Christmas Eve parties became a beloved tradition, bringing family and friends together in celebration, laughter, and togetherness, followed by Midnight Mass shared with loved ones.

JoAnn is survived by her three daughters, many grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her legacy of love, friendship, and family.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her devotion to family, her lifelong friendships, and the way she made everyone feel welcome and valued. Her presence will be deeply missed and forever treasured.