Obituary of Joanna - McKenna

Born in Ohio to Kathryn and Robert Kefauver, Joanna grew up in the Columbus area, moving to California in 1969. Her love of travel led to a career in aviation. After retiring from the World Airways executive office in 1985, she moved with her husband William McKenna to Amador County, where they embraced a rich community life. Jo loved her job in publishing at Volcano Press, where she worked with the Gottstein family for many years and opened a shop in Volcano to sell her fine tole-painting artwork. She and Bill volunteered for the Lockwood Fire District Auxiliary and the Amador County Animal Shelter for years. Rescued dogs and cats were always a vital presence at their Tranquility Hill home in Sutter Creek, where Jo lived so happily till the end of her life. Joanna is survived by beloved husband William McKenna; daughter Tracy Huddleson; son-in-law Peter Hurme, and the Kefauver/Emch/Williams and McKenna families. Loving friends provided comfort during Jo's illness, especially Marilyn and Brad Clemons, Abigail Twiss, Toby Applebay, Jan Dolter, Sylvia Schofield, Michel Rousselin, and Carol Bradas. Remembered as dearly as sisters were her lifelong friends Jan Scanlan, Diane Applebay Alban, and Dorothy Altermatt. A private memorial will be held in mid-June. If desired, donations in Joanna's memory may be made to the Amador County Animal Shelter or Hospice of Amador & Calaveras.