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Joan was delighted with life; her pups, family, friends, travels, flowers, faith…..but shied away from personal recognition. Promoting the Havanese breed and Havanese Rescue Inc. was her passion.
When HRI was born 20 years ago, Joan was selling a family house. There were two bidders. One said, “If she takes my offer I will give $5000 to any charity she chooses.” This gave us the seed money to start HRI. That money had matching donations and grew quickly to $19,000.
Joan looked at the big picture and not only planned for now, but also thought about what would keep up enthusiasm and momentum. She was concerned about HRI’s current needs as well as how to keep the organization vital. Her kindness and dedication to hard work helped create an organization of dedicated volunteers and supporters.
Joan was a gracious host by nature and the best event planner. Newbies volunteering for the first time said how Joan pulled them into the mix, made them feel welcome and put them to work! She made them feel part of something wonderful and “included”. At our Nationals it was not unusual to find Joan missing, as our “past president” was off in the corner making sure things were getting done. If you still couldn’t find Joan, you‘d most likely find her in her room making treat bags and favors for our guests, or in the ballroom fixing flowers for the tables. And at the end of an event who else but Joan would think to give out gift bags simply to let guests know how appreciated they were…even if the contents were for the pups!
Joan knew that our love of Havanese was our organization’s common bond, and helped us to channel our passion and keep it focused on our mission of rescuing Havanese, one dog at a time. This has had a lasting impact. We fondly remember how much heart Joan put into our rescue and how she really helped set a path for the organization. A woman contacted us about her ill father's 12 1/2 year old Havanese. The daughter talked with her dad, who said he used to be in touch with the breeder. Joan got in touch with the breeder, who actually traveled from Florida to Chicago to get that dear old dog. She was so grateful to us for letting her know. As for the daughter, she was so moved by the care shown for that dog, the respect shown to her family and breeder. We didn't spend any money, but Joan’s can-do spirit and compassion meant everything to all involved. Sparky went back to the person who'd caught her at birth, an old man died knowing his dog was cared for and his daughter watched it all with amazement and gratitude.
Joan never lost sight of our goals and passions. She has touched so many. She pushed so many of us to be our best. As one volunteer stated, “She was our everything. “
She will be so deeply missed by all. We hope Joan is having a reception fitting a queen at the Rainbow Bridge. Rest In Peace, dear friend.
In lieu of flowers, Joan suggested that donations in her memory be sent to Havanese Rescue Inc. Joan’s love of the breed and her accomplishments will live on as part of HRI’s inspiration.
Please click here: https://havaneserescue.com/faqs/donating/make-a-donation
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