JoAnn Grace Hartshorn, 68, went peacefully into the presence of the Lord, Jan. 17, 2005, at her home on Camano Island, with family and friends at her side. She was an inspiration to many as she fought her long battle with cancer with grace, humor and fortitude.

JoAnn was born July 20, 1936, in Yakima, to Merle and Eva Pursell, the first of three girls.  

She grew up in Silverdale, graduating from Central Kitsap High School in 1954. Her happiest memories were on the beach: camping at the ocean, walking barefoot in the waves, collecting beach glass and agates, and watching her grandkids play.

JoAnn faced life’s challenges with a sense of adventure and a heart for others. From Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Michigan, Nevada and Washington she raised four children, made many close friends, sewed, gardened, cruised, and rode motorcycles. After working many years in retail, she found her true gift as a professional caregiver.

JoAnn retired to Coupeville in August 2002, where she lived until November 2004. Her favorite place was the beach at Ebey’s Landing.

The family thanks Living Hope Foursquare Church in Coupeville, staff of Island Home Health, the staff of MAC clinic at Whidbey General Hospital, staff of Snohomish County hospice and her doctors and nurses for their care.

JoAnn leaves behind an amazing circle of friends who faithfully cared for her and shared her journey. Special thanks to Ruth, Carolyn, Leila, Pam, and Nancy. She also leaves her mother, Eva Pursell, her sister, Jeri Messamore, her sister, Tricia Little, her step-son Joey Mothershed and families, all of Mesa, Ariz. Her daughter, Sandi Swanson (Ralph) of Camano Island; son, Shawn Hartshorn (Betty) of Marion, Mich.; son, Jeff Hartshorn (Mary) of Everett; and daughter, Dawnita Hunsberger (Phil) of Bothell. She will be greatly missed by her grandchildren: Jodi, Steven, Sara, Jerika, Stephanie, Paul, Mike, Hannah, Desi, Nick, Katie, Olivia, Joey, Scott, Kim, and her great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A celebration service will be held on Sunday, Jan. 23 at Living Hope Foursquare in Coupeville at 3 p.m. Reception following. Memorials may be made in JoAnn’s name to Living Hope Foursquare Church, 105 NW Broadway, P.O. Box 896, Coupeville, WA 98239.