Obituary of Joanne Bean Birkett

Joanne (Jan) Bean Birkett, 92, passed away October 27, 2023 at her daughter’s home in Marana, Arizona.

She was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey on June 18, 1931 to Marcus H. and Claire T. Bean. She was raised there with her brothers Roger and Michael. She left home to attend Brigham Young University, where she met and married Gene Elliott Tuttle. They eventually divorced, and Jan married Victor Trost from Sedona, Arizona. After a short time, Vic passed away. Jan then met John Birkett from Flagstaff, Arizona. They were married for 40 years, living in both Sedona and Flagstaff. The last few years of their lives were spent in Tucson, Arizona.

Jan had many interests and talents. Her career choices included being a legal secretary and real estate broker. She was an avid bridge player, achieving Ruby Life Master status. She loved to knit beautiful sweaters, baby blankets and hats for many family members. She was never without a book to read, and finished a New York Times crossword puzzle daily. She was a fantastic cook and enjoyed entertaining. Jan loved and included everyone in her large family, holding gatherings to keep them all connected.

Jan was preceded in death by John in 2019 and is survived by her children Suzy (Zane) Kartchner, Marc (Charlotte) Tuttle, Bonnie Trost, Jim (Barb) Trost, Barb (Gary) Giordano, Pam (Kevin) Tschantre, Barb (Jason) Vaughn, Janet (Jeff) Kurth and John (Lisa) Birkett as well as 23 grandchildren who fondly call her Nonna. She is also survived by her brothers Roger (Joyce) Bean and Michael (Jocelyn (dec.)) Bean.

Visitation will be Saturday, November 4, 2023 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 13555 N. Lon Adams Rd, Marana, AZ from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. Funeral services will begin at 10:00 a.m. Interment will occur at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 201 W. University Drive, Flagstaff, AZ on Tuesday, November 7 at 1:00 p.m.  http://zoom.us/j/91778188172