Joanne Marie Blackburn, 78, of Chelan, died Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2010, at Central Washington Hospital, Wenatchee, following a brief illness.
She was born Sept. 10, 1932, at Grand Forks, N.D., the daughter of Bud and Clara (Kerr) Erwin. At the age of 12, she moved with her family to Everett. Soon after the family moved to Manson, where she graduated high school. She was a Manson Apple Blossom Princess.
She then moved to Chelan where she was employed with GTE Telephone Company in the early 70’s. She also ran her own day-care in addition to being a full-time homemaker, mother and grandma.
On March 17, 1962, she was married to Lawrence (Larry) Blackburn at Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandkids. She enjoyed reading, gardening, canning, backing, Rving and traveling with her husband. She also enjoyed watching sports and especially loved the Mariners.
Survivors include three sons: Dave Blackburn and Steve Blackburn, both of Chelan; Richard Ward, of Richland; three daughters: Joanne (Jo) Jabbar, of Chelan; Rhonda Ketron, of Couer d’Alene, Idaho; Denise Ward, of Puyallup; two step-children: Nola Robertson, of Tukwila; Larry Blackburn, Jr, of Burbank, Wash.; 12 grandchildren and one great- grandchild.
Her husband preceded her in death in 2007 and she was also preceded by a daughter Shelley.
A tribute service took place on Monday, Nov. 29, 2010, at Precht Rose Chapel with Rev. Keith Rife officiating. Interment was at Fraternal Cemetery. Services have been entrusted to Precht Rose Chapel, Chelan.
[S5] Find A Grave, → Memorial ID 62898253.