Joan Ann Bracken, age 73, a resident of Black Forest, Colorado since 1992 and a traveler of the world — compliments of her loving husband and the U. S. Air Force — passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 2, 2012 at her home surrounded by those that dearly loved her.
Joan was born on September 14, 1938 in Champlain, New York to the late Emile and Georgiana Filion. She was a 1956 graduate of St. Mary’s High School. She married her soul mate, Eddie Bracken, on July 11, 1959, and together they raised four children; Mary R. Moore (Colorado Springs, CO), Erin Spiridigliozzi (Lawrence, KS), Pattie Kupperman (Murrieta, CA), and Ed Bracken (Delavan, WI). Together they endured twenty-nine house moves, and their travels took them to such locations as England, Japan, and to every state in the United States. A favorite trip for Joan was her journey to Jerusalem to see first-hand where her Lord lived and delivered His message of love and compassion.
She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who loved her “cuppa” tea and Ikebana flower arranging. She enjoyed gardening, camping, and volunteering for her community in many capacities through the Black Forest Community Club. Sitting as a key member of the Board of Directors for the Educational Opportunity Foundation of the Black Forest, Joan ensured that many youths were able to pursue their educational dreams. Her favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, reflected her love of children. She will be remembered best for her love of family, the simple things in life, and for loving everyone just as they are.
She is survived by her loving husband, four children and their spouses, six grand children, and many nieces and nephews. Also surviving is her brother, Donald Filion of Georgia.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Pines Catholic Church, 11020 Teachout Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80908-4372. Interment will take place after the ceremony at the Eastonville Cemetery, Black Forest, El Paso County located at the northeast corner of Meridian and Latigo roads. A reception will be held afterwards at the Black Forest Community Club, 12530 Black Forest Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80908. The Shrine of Remembrance of Colorado Springs, Colorado has been entrusted with her remains.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in support of pancreatic cancer research to the CU Foundation, Attn: Libby Printz, 13001 East 17th Place, Mail Stop F434, Aurora, Colorado 80045.