Joan Novell

From humble beginnings in the oil fields of Oklahoma came Joan Cook Novell. She was born the second of two daughters in Ralston, Oklahoma on March 20, 1923 to Emma Hazel Venator Cook and Albert D. Cook. Her ancestors were part of the Oklahoma Sooners period in history, which was a story of hardy pioneers and determined people. Joan passed away on November, 26, 2010 in San Diego County, California, four years after her beloved husband, O.C. Novell.

Joan graduated from the Webb City High School in 1940, whose class still holds reunions today. She formed long lasting friendships and enjoyed keeping in touch with alumni. She married her high school sweetheart and enjoyed 62 years of marriage, which was an example to many. She followed wherever he was stationed while in the Navy. They lived in Corpus Christi, San Francisco, Honolulu, Pensacola and eventually settled in San Diego. They raised two daughters, Saundra Lee Wennhold and Paula Novell Straus of La Mesa, CA, who survive her. Also included in her surviving family are son-in-laws William Wennhold and Michael Straus, 6 grandsons and a granddaughter: Joshua, Zachary and Matthew Straus; William, Chris, John and Mary Wennhold. Joan’s sister, Betty Jane Mendell, still lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma and her children, Bill and Robert Mendell, and Rhonda Vinson were important in her life. Sister-in-law Rose Novell resides in Heath, Ohio.

Joan was a woman of generosity, wisdom, kindness and creativity. She was a homemaker, yet she loved to teach, counsel, and was a friend to many. She loved a good laugh and was one to go to for guidance. You were fortunate if you knew her.

Joan and O.C. loved to travel, crossing the United States several times, going from Alaska to Hawaii, and eventually Europe. Each anniversary they would go to their favorite vacation destination, Hawaii. She loved the desert, where they would ride motorcycles and dune buggies. Many trips to the Colorado River were made, where floating in inner tubes, water skiing or relaxing with friends and family, were enjoyed. Joan was always ready for adventure. Later in life Joan nurtured her artistic side and became a proficient artist, leaving many paintings as her legacy. Friends and family members are fortunate to have them displayed in their homes.

As her husband always said, Joan was the backbone and the glue that gave strength to the family. A private celebration honoring her life will be held. There will be a scattering of both Joan and O.C.’s ashes; together forever.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the George G. Glenner Alzheimer’s Family Center,

which has been so supportive to the family. 3702 Fourth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103