Title
Recognizing Joan Wittman for her many contributions to the Community.
Body
WHEREAS, Joan Wittman began her life in Saint Paul on February 23, 1931 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, marking the beginning of her strong connections to the City of Saint Paul and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet; and,
WHEREAS, Joan’s foundation in faith and advocacy were initiated during her early years at John Ireland Catholic School, and Good Counsel Academy in St. Peter Minnesota and were further developed in her in pursuit of a Degree in Education at Mankato State University and a Masters Degree in Pastoral Studies at St. Thomas College; and,
WHEREAS, Joan and her husband Wayne purchased their home at 1498 Fremont Avenue in 1957, creating a loving home for their 5 children-Bob, Jeanne, David, Mary Jo, and Susan; welcoming their children’s 5 spouses and 11 grandchildren; and serving as a center of community engagement and activity over the past 55 years; and,
WHEREAS, Joan’s dedication to social justice can be seen in her advocacy for a variety of social causes including human, women’s and immigrant’s rights; and economic, environmental and criminal justice. Joan was instrumental in writing educational materials outlining the recognition and resources to prevent spousal abuse and promoting legislation to aid the victims of prostitution and human trafficking; and,
WHEREAS, Joan has worked to make the world better through her political activism including years volunteering for the DFL party; supporting local candidates such as Senator Mee Moua; and co-founding the Women of Senate District 67 group to provide a forum for political education and dialogue. One of the biggest thrills of her life was to cast an official ballot for President Barak Obama as a member of the Minnesota Electoral College in 2008; and,
WHEREAS, Joan’s volunteer service has extended to many areas including the establishment of a girl’s softball team at Parkway Little League; delivering library books...
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