Joan Diane Valentin

Joan Diane Valentin May 19, 1938 - Dec. 9, 2015 Joan peacefully passed away with her devoted children by her side. Born to Mariano and Juanita Tabin in Walnut Creek, California. At a young age, Stockton became her home where she lived the rest of her life. Joan was the second oldest of 6 siblings. Their names are Sonny, Joan, Charlie, Patsy, Denny and Gene. She always enjoyed visiting with her brothers and sisters and spending hours either reminiscing of their younger years or talking about the events in their life. Joan was preceded in death by her high school sweetheart, Raymond Valentin, whom she was married to for 42 years. They had 4 children, Richard Valentin, Michael (Lydia) Valentin, Laurie (Larry) Leffler, Marlesse (Reynaldo) Cavazos, 13 grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Loving sister of Gene (Vicky), Dennis (Patsy) Tabin, many relatives and close friends. Joan graduated from Stockton High School and received her A.A. Degree in Early Childhood Education from S.J. Delta College. She was very proud of her accomplishments as she made the Dean’s list. In Joan’s younger years, she worked at Snow White on Eldorado Street. When she began to have children, she became a homemaker until the time that her children entered middle and high school. During the years as a housewife, she could be found with the neighborhood moms as they took turns visiting each other’s houses, baking cookies for the soldiers or shopping for groceries. Joan was very involved in her children’s lives as she attended every sporting event and was the loudest parent to cheer for their child. She continued to be a great supporter in her grandchildren’s lives as they played sports or participated in individual activities. Joan was the ultimate hostess who loved to have gatherings in her home. She enjoyed cooking and baking for the holidays and would invite others who would spend these times alone to join our family celebrations. Everyone who entered our home always felt welcomed. She had the incredible wisdom to make others feel special, loved and part of the family. Her children can recall the countless friends they brought home from school. She became a second mother to their friends and soon after meeting her, they began to call her “mom.” Even as her children became adults, their friends always invited Joan to participate in their gatherings. Joan was a dedicated and loyal employee who always gave her best in whatever she did. Working as an office manager, for over 25 years at McCormick and Baxter and over 10 years with Beverly Manor. While working in the assisted living care facilities, she enjoyed taking time to visit with the residents. She retired at the age of 65. As she worked throughout the years, she made many lasting friendships that she cherished. She was a mentor to many and a great listener to all. After she retired she continued to work part time for her daughter-in-law because she loved interacting with people. Joan loved helping others and was devoted to her family. She always found time to spend quality time with each of her children and was always interested in their daily lives. She loved to travel and enjoyed life. She touched many hearts with her loving smile and infectious laughter.