Obituary of Joann Estelle Hartshorn

Joann Estelle Hartshorn, 79, of Lakewood, Washington returned to her heavenly home September 25, 2020. Though she lived her life to the fullest, as her battle with leiomyosarcoma intensified, she expressed joyful anticipation of being reunited with her beloved husband, Wally, who passed away two years earlier. Shortly before her passing, her sisters, Janet and Heidi, were by her side. Some of her children were also with her. Eve was present, and Kreg and Leisa held her hand as she departed this life. She made it just in time to spend her wedding anniversary, September 26, with Wally. 

Joann was born in Tacoma, Washington to Emil Americo Ripoliand Ruth Estelle Munsen. She was the oldest child and had two younger sisters, Janet and Heidi. As a child, she wanted a pony and hoped to become a cowgirl, riding horses and shooting guns. She loved to be in her dad’s shop and watch him work. She was a bright student and avid reader who loved to learn. Singing, painting, and writing poetry were some of the hobbies she loved. 

Later, she raised seven children and helped with the rearing of several foster children. The family blessed many in their church and community through their family singing in beautiful harmony. Despite many moves over the years, the kitchen seemed to be the center of the home, and she was always at the center of the kitchen. She loved to cook and bake and share her culinary delights with family, friends, and neighbors. Sunday dinners often included large roasts, ten pounds of potatoes, and any number of possible desserts including cakes, cobblers, or pies. At Christmas time the kitchen was converted into a holiday bakery that turned out countless plates of festive treats, delivered by the entire family as they sang Christmas carols. 

Joann was filled with faith, hope, and a valiant testimony of Jesus Christ. She would often quote scriptures in her regular conversations with friends, neighbors, and family. One of her favorite verses was “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God” (Romans 8:28).  As a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she loved the Lord and was eager to serve in her church and community in many ways over the years. Her greatest aspiration was to raise a family who loved the Savior. She left a legacy of great faith, and her unwavering testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ will live on through her children and grandchildren across generations!

Though her life seemed fraught with large doses of difficulty, disappointment, and distress, she was determined to make the best of each challenge. She will be remembered as one who had great love for God, family, and her fellowman. She has returned to her heavenly home and will now help prepare the way for her growing posterity. Joann is survived by her children: Kevin (Lasha) Hartshorn; Eve (Jeston) Hays; Kirt (Kathleen)Hartshorn; K. James (Joella) Hartshorn; Leisa (Brian Linstrom) Bennett; Pearl Semer; and Kreg Hartshorn; 37 grandchildren, 17great-grandchildren (with three more on the way); sisters, Janet (Stan) Waldref, Heidi (Ken) Bugbee; and many nieces and nephews.

Joann’s funeral service will be held Saturday, October 10, 2020 (5420 104th St. S.W. Lakewood, WA). Given the restrictions associated with the ongoing pandemic, in-person participation will be limited. Questions can be directed by call or text to Leisa Hartshorn (701-202-3187).