September 7th 1927 -
September 8th, 2008
Joan passed away from pancreatic cancer the day after her 81st birthday with her daughter Laura at her side. Joan is survived by her three children: Michael Gavini Mazzoni, Marco Mazzoni of Seattle and Laura Gavini of Vancouver, who were fortunate to spend the last three weeks of Joan’s life caring for her. Joan was born in Vancouver and attended King Edward High School. She studied dance with Rosemary Deveson and the legendary Martha Graham. She went on to work on Broadway as a featured performer in shows such as “The Red Mill”, “Oklahoma”, and “High Button Shoes” with noted performers Phil Silvers, Audrey Hepburn and choreographer Jerome Robbins. Joan was passionate about all forms of dance and taught classes in Rio de Janeiro, and Los Angeles. In her later years, she became involved in synchronized swimming and international folk dancing. Joan was well known as an antique collector and celebrated hostess when she lived in Chemainus. She was also a beloved friend to many and wife to Pat Moyer for thirty years. Joan’s family would like to thank the staff at Arbutus Care Center in Vancouver for the outstanding care shown to their Mother. Her beautiful spirit and smile will be greatly missed.
Memorial and celebration of her life to be determined at a later date. If you have any special memories to share with Joan’s family please send to
girlfabulous@telus.net.