Joan Alice Whitman

Long Beach resident Joan Whitman, 70, died December 1, 2009 at her residence following a battle with lung cancer. She was born August 1, 1939 in Astoria, Oregon, the daughter of Lewis and Evelyn Nichols. Joan grew up in Madras, Oregon where she graduated from high school and there, too, she met and married her sweetheart, Cecil Whitman. Following retirement in 1993 Joan and Cecil moved to Long Beach where this year they celebrated their 51st anniversary. Joan took pride in her family and friends. Knitting, crocheting and a variety of crafts were favorite activities. Joan was active in raising donations and caring for displaced families when she resided in Cowlitz county. In addition to her husband, Joan is survived by her son David Whitman of Portland, OR; daughter Debra Spies of Kelso, WA; five grandchildren; and a brother Lowell Nichols of Richland, WA. Her sister Darleen Whitman preceded her in death. A gathering will be held at Joan's residence in Long Beach on Saturday, December 12th, 2009 from 12 Noon until 3 PM. Her guestbook is available at www.penttilaschapel.com.