Joan Evelyn McGaffin

Joan Evelyn (Osterhus) McGaffin passed away on June 1, 2009. She was born January 28, 1930 in Janesville, Wisconsin to Halbert and Evelyn Osterhus. Joan grew up in Janesville, then attended and graduated from Madison College. After graduation she was employed by Chevrolet Motors in Janesville and later in the Regional Office in Milwaukee, where she met Robert (Bob) C. McGaffin. They were married in Janesville on December 22, 1951 and enjoyed 57 years of marriage. She is survived by her husband, five children and their spouses, whom she loved like her own: Daughter, Karen and husband, Mike Sharitz, son, Rob and wife, Julie McGaffin, daughter, Lynn and husband, Tim Hess, son, Dave McGaffin and wife, Shawna Reid, and son, Steve. Joan adored her eight grandsons and one granddaughter-in-law, Micah, Megan and Kevin Sharitz, Madison and Sam McGaffin, Trevor, Jonas and Garrett Hess and Ian Reid McGaffin. We know that she is looking down with love on her great-grandson, Cameron Sharitz. Joan is also survived by her sisters Ruth Suby, Gail Gregory, Janice McFarlan, her brother-in-law Paul Suby, and many nieces and nephews. Joan was a devoted mother, who worked at home to ensure that each of her five children experienced the loving support, faith formation and guidance that she so willingly shared. She loved to work with small children. Joan served as a teacher’s assistant for many years at The School of Grace preschool and became “Grandma” to many of “her” children. Joan will be remembered by her faith filled heart, love of family and friends, and her glorious smile. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Wake County or Grace Lutheran Church.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News & Observer on Jun. 4, 2009.