Isobel Joan Jessiman's Obituary
Surrounded by her family, Joan passed away on May 14, 2017 in the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and Doug Morris. Dearly beloved wife of the late Douglas A. Jessiman (2007) to whom she was married for 59 years, dearest mother of Deborah Mikula (Terry) of Castro Valley, CA and Pamela Morris (Doug) of Kelseyville, CA. Loving grandmother of Rachael Teague of Forestville, CA. Also survived by dear sister Eileen Oliver (N. Vancouver, B.C. Canada) and her family, the family of her late brother, Edward Fallen, sister-in-law Kathleen Hunter (Reno, NV) and her family, also many relatives in Canada and the United Kingdom. Joan was born in Thunder Bay (previously Fort William), Ontario, Canada to parents Albert E. and Dorothy V. Fallen (Saunders), on November 28, 1921. She grew up during the years of the Depression, and as a young woman proudly served her country during World War II in the Canadian Women’s Army Corps from 1942-1946, and was discharged with the rank of sergeant. Joan made many friends in the service and remained a life long friend of Herbert Peppard of Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada, a decorated Canadian war hero and member of the First Special Service Force. Although they did not see one another again after the war, Joan and Herb renewed their friendship in 1996 and remained in contact by phone and letters until Joan’s death. It was a friendship she treasured. As a young girl, Joan excelled academically and in sports always striving to do her very best. She participated in basketball and gymnastics, and taught physical training at the local YWCA. Joan showed an exceptional talent in swimming, winning many cups and medals in competition, most notably the Ontario Junior Women’s 50 yard free style medal in 1938. Joan continued her swimming as an adult and also played golf with her husband, Doug. She was talented at ceramics, needlework, knitting, and taught herself to sew and made many of her daughters’ clothes when they were growing up. Joan enjoyed traveling with her husband, Doug and they cherished all their wonderful friendships, especially with their dear friends and neighbors, John and Elsie Hinkley. After Doug’s death, Joan moved to Baywood Court Retirement Community in 2008 where with her charming smile and engaging personality, she made new friends and enjoyed the companionship of special friend, Bill Snowman. Together they reminisced about their years in military service to their countries, discussed world events and politics, and shared meals and special events at Baywood Court. Joan held many roles in her long life, but her best efforts were given to being a loving and dedicated daughter and sister, loving, devoted, and supportive wife, and an involved, caring, and loving mother and grandmother, and a good friend.Services have been held at the Chapel of the Chimes, Hayward, and Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Castro Valley on May 23, 2017. Memorial donations may be made to Macular Vision Research Foundation (mvrf.org), any veterans charity, or charity of your choice.
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