Joann Gatling

JoAnn Gatling, 82, of Battle Creek passed away with her family at her side on Saturday February 15, 2014 at Rose Arbor Hospice Residence, Kalamazoo. She was born on May 8, 1931 in Battle Creek to Halbert M. and Dorothy M. (Wood) Loomis.  JoAnn graduated from Lakeview High School in 1949. She was united in marriage on April 4, 1953 to Willey Meade Gatling, who preceded her in death on Jan. 9, 2003. JoAnn was employed by Ralston Purina Company and then as a bookkeeper for the Law Office of Vandervoort, Cooke, McFee, Christ, Carpenter, and Fisher until she retired.  JoAnn was a devoted wife and mother to her family, and enjoyed the company of many great friends. She was a member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church and was active in the Church Circle. JoAnn was a talented seamstress who especially enjoyed quilting.  Other hobbies included gardening, music, traveling and spending much time boating and waterskiing with her family and friends.  She adored her pets, and loved all animals.    Surviving are, a daughter, Nancy J. Gatling, of Schoolcraft; six grandchildren, Sarah K. and Jenny A. Armstrong; also Amy L., Madelyn M., Jacob G., and Justin W. Heward. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Margaret Ann Armstrong and a son-in-law, Robert Armstrong.  Services will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, February 21 in the Chapel at Memorial Park Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions may be given to Humane Society of South Central Michigan.  Arrangements are by the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home

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