Joanne was born in Oxnard, California, on February 20, 1932, to Blanche and Jack Jensen.  She lived and went to school in Southern California.  She learned to love camping and fishing from her dad.  

While on a camping trip to Nevada with her dad, she met Neil Talcott, who was to become the love of her life.  They married just after she graduated high school in 1949. Neil and Joanne lived on a ranch in Buena Vista Valley until Neil sold the ranch.  They spent a year in Tungsten, where Neil worked in the mill, then moved to Lovelock, where he was Maintenance Foreman for Pershing County School District.  Joanne was busy those years raising the 3 children.  She was the best mother anyone could ask for. 

Always kind, she gave great advice and would listen to us anytime we needed an ear.  She was a terrific cook and seamstress and also an avid Ham Radio Operator.  Many radio friends would stop to visit and have a cup of coffee on their way through Nevada.  Joanne also ran a cake business out of her home, making specialty decorated cakes, including wedding cakes, for people.  When Neil retired she gave that up so they could spend more time camping and fishing.  

Joanne was a 50-year member of The Order of Eastern Star.  She held offices and was the musician for many years.  As a member, she also was Mother Advisor to the Rainbow Girls.

Joanne loved people.  She never had a bad word to say about anyone.  Her favorite place in later years was the senior center where they ate lunch, played bingo, and shared stories.  

Neil, her beloved husband of 56 years passed in December 2005.

Mom was our friend, confidant, and counselor.  We will miss her forever!