Joan Perry

April 29, 1932 – January 5, 2025

On the evening of January 5, 2025 Joan Goeas Canepa Perry passed away peacefully at her home in Gilroy, California with her devoted husband, Lyle Perry, and her faithful dog, Lacey, by her side.

Born on April 29, 1932 in Honolulu, Hawaii, Joan was the cherished daughter of Margaret and Edward Goeas Sr. She spent her childhood in the Kaimuki and Makiki neighborhoods, growing up with her older brother Edward Jr., and her beloved sister Sylvia Goeas Luz. In 1949, the Goeas family relocated to San Jose, California, where Joan completed her senior year at Notre Dame High School, graduating in 1950.

Joan continued her education at Heald Business College in San Francisco and began a successful career in accounts payable. It was during a trip to Catalina Island’s Avalon that she met Louis E. Canepa. They married on December 2, 1951, and settled in San Jose, where they raised their four children: Kathie Canepa, Louis Canepa, Jr., Brian Canepa and Karen Canepa Spencer.

Joan’s life was centered around her family, faith and community. She was a devoted mother and active volunteer at St. John Vianney School and Church. Her involvement in local 4-H clubs fostered her family’s love of animals and the outdoors. Known for her warmth and hospitality, Joan created a home filled with love, laughter and countless memories.

After Louis Sr.’s passing, Joan began her second career in 1979 as a sales assistant at Dean Witter (now Morgan Stanley) in San Jose. It was during this time that she met Lyle Perry, whose shared love of golf, dancing and adventure brought her a new chapter of happiness. They married April 4, 1992 and spent more than three decades travelling the world, hitting the links, and cherishing time with family and friends.

Joan is survived by her husband, Lyle; her four children; six grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Sylvia, three stepchildren, and eight step-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her brother, Edward Jr., and her eldest grandson, Christopher Canepa.

Joan will be remembered for her strength, grace, and unwavering devotion to her loved ones. She lived a life marked by generosity, kindness and an open heart that touched all who knew her. Her legacy is one of love and service, leaving an indelible imprint on her family and community.

A visitation and celebration of Joan’s life will take place at Lima Family Mortuary in Santa Clara on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 10 a.m., followed by a service at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery.