Joan was born the youngest child, to the late Howard and Gertrude Lear on Aug.7, 1931 in Arlington, Virginia. She is preceded by her siblings, Camilla, Jay and Jeannie. Her family left Virginia when she was a toddler, her father spent two years working as a carpenter and a cook, making their way across the United States to Los Angeles then on to Hawaii. She lived in Hawaii and survived the bombing of Pearl Harbor at the age of 10. She and her family moved on to Colville Washington where she spent her early teenage years on a farm with chickens, cats and dogs. She even had a pet skunk called Skunkie. She often spoke fondly of how much she loved it there. They eventually landed back in Los Angeles where she graduated from Garfield High School in 1949.
Joan married her late husband Joseph Dagostino in July of 1957 and they took up residence in Monterey Park, California before moving to San Diego in 1965. In 1967 they bought their home on Golfcrest Drive that she loved so much and spent the rest of her living years in.
Joan had many hobbies and interests, she loved going to baseball games (Go Padres), cooking and throwing parties (the bigger the better), growing roses, swimming (even when the water was cold), traveling (Europe, Caribbean, Hawaii, East coast, Cruises), holidays (Halloween & Christmas) and volunteering for meals on wheels. But most importantly she loved her family and spending time with them.
Joan had a great sense of humor and frequently laughed at the absurdity of the world. She was so classy and fashionable and was always dressed to the nines, her love for fine things was apparent. Generosity was another strong character trait of hers, and she helped many people over the years. She was a true optimist, and always found a way to see the bright side of things or find the proverbial silver lining. She was a Lady, who made an impression on anyone who met her and she will be dearly missed by so many. There is a big hole in our hearts and our lives that will never be filled but we can look back and reminisce on the fond memories and fun times we all had with her to help ease the pain of our loss. When you watch a Padres game, see a beautiful rose or decorate for the holidays, think of Joan and remember a woman who was steadfast and true, honest as the day is long and a titan among women.
Joan is survived by her son Greg Dagostino, her daughter Michelle (Dagostino) Bales, and grandchildren, Joseph Dagostino, Frank Dagostino, Jenna Bales and Justis Bales.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Guadalupe (Lupe) Garcia for her time, dedication, love, and friendship that she provided to our mother over the past 20 years.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: American Stroke Association or Hospice.
A funeral service for Ella will be held Friday, October 22, 2021 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley, 5600 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92121.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sorrentovalleychapel.com for the Dagostino family.
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