I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me,
though he were dead, yet shall he live.

John 11:25

Joan M. Bohley,

Milwaukie, Oregon (formerly of Oak Park, Illinois)

July 5, 1929 – October 27, 2017

Born in Medina, Ohio, Joan lived in the Chicago area for sixty years and finally, one year in Milwaukie, Oregon.

After graduating from Wheaton College and Moody Bible Institute in 1951 with a bachelor’s degree in art, Joan returned to Ohio where she taught art in Sandusky for several years before settling in Chicago. In the windy city, Joan did secretarial work and supplemented her income by singing in choirs such as the University of Chicago Rockefeller Choir, Fourth Presbyterian Church Choir, Chicago Symphony Chorus, Grant Park Chorus and the Ascension Choir.

In the mid-1960’s, Joan attended court reporting school and then worked for the Circuit Court of Cook County as a court reporter until her retirement in December, 1996.

Joan was always a productive artist. Her artwork over the years included watercolor and oil paintings, stained glass work, handmade paper animal designs and embroidery. Most recently she has made many quilts, some of traditional designs and some original contemporary designs. All beautiful with a cohesive sense of color and design, many of Joan’s art pieces are at once sophisticated and at the same time playful, with a childlike joy.

A beloved sister, friend and aunt, Joan had a lively intellect and fun sense of humor. She always had a beautiful home full of interesting objects and most especially her own striking artwork. In her final years, the eventual loss of her eyesight revealed her resilient character. Joan maintained a positive outlook and kind nature. When starting a conversation, she would often say, “How are you? Tell me everything.” She will be sorely missed by her family and friends.

Burial in Adams Cemetery; Molalla, Oregon.

Those wishing to make a donation in her memory might want to consider where she gave her final donation to https://apps.oregon.gov/ecommerce/tbabs or send a check by mail to the following address. Joan enjoyed many hours of audio books after losing her sight. You may also want to give to a similar organization in your own state.

Talking Books, State Library of Oregon, 250 Winter St NE, Salem, OR 97301