Obituary of Joann B. Breitsman

Joann B. Breitsman, age 88 of Lewiston died Sunday August 14, 2011 at her daughter's residence in Youngstown under the loving care of her family and Niagara Hospice. Joann was born July 16, 1923 in Lockport, NY , the daughter of the late Clifford W. and Donna (Whitney) Beers. She was a 1941 graduate of Brighton High School in Brighton, NY and attended Hood College in Frederick, MD. On October 6, 1944 she married Willis J. Breitsman, Jr. who predeceased her in 2004. Joann was a member and Deacon of the First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston. She was a founder and volunteer at Hart Interfaith, Inc. for many years. Joann served as a Girl Scouts of America Troop Leader in Zelienople, PA and as a Boy Scouts of America Troop Leader in East Aurora, NY where she was also a member of the League of Women Voters. She had also served on the Ecumenical Love Canal Task Force. Joann enjoyed golf, skiing, and her study group in Lewiston. Most of all she lovingly supported her children and grandchildren. She also loved spending summers on Sunset Island in Wilson, in the cottage built by her grandfather, Elbert Whitney. She is survived by her children, Donna "Dauby" (Rickey) Breitsman Farlow of Landrum, SC, John (Kristie) Breitsman of Harrisburg, PA, Charles Whitney (Randi) Breitsman of Ligonier, PA, and Melissa (Michael) Breitsman Dowd of Youngstown; her grandchildren, Alex, Sara, and Stephanie Breitsman, Charles, Wilson, Marny, and Sam Dowd; a brother, Thomas Whitney (Judy) Beers of Old Lyme, CT. She was predeceased by two daughters, Ann Elizabeth and Elizabeth Sue Breitsman. Graveside Services in Pittsford, NY will be private at the convenience of the family. There will be no visitation. Memorials may be made to Hart Interfaith, Inc. 505 Cayuga St., Lewiston, NY 14092 or to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094. Arrangements have been entrusted to HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, N. Fourth & Ridge Sts., Lewiston.