Joan Elizabeth (Arterburn) O'Reilly's Obituary
Joan O’Reilly, 82, passed away on November 23, 2016 in Lacey, Washington. She was born on November 16, 1934 to Paul and Bernice (Collins) Arterburn in Tacoma, Washington. She graduated Lincoln High School in Tacoma in 1952, and then graduated Nursing School at Tacoma General Hospital in 1955. On July 21, 1961 Joan married the love of her life, Felix (Phil) O’Reilly and they relocated to San Antonio, Texas during Phil’s Military service, before returning to Washington. In their 55 years together they only spent one week apart during Felix’s service. Joan and Felix raised four children. While raising their family Joan worked at Evergreen General Hospital in Kirkland, Washington, where she was a respected Labor and Delivery Nurse, and took pride in welcoming many new lives into the world. Joan chose to work nights in order to be the available to chauffeur and be the main rooting section for her children during their many different activities. In later years Joan enjoyed spending time with her family in particular her grandchildren whom she fiercely loved.
Joan was a strong and faithful woman who loved to travel with her family, was active in the church and was talented in many crafts including, sewing, spinning, and knitting. She was also active in caring and showing animals including goats, dogs, horses and many other animal. She is survived by her husband Phil; three children Brian, Paul and Amy; Son in Law Jim; three grandchildren Riley, Riffe and Emma. She was preceded in death by her daughter Maureen.
Any donations can be made to the Yelm Community United Methodist Church or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
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