Joan (Zaratzian) Horhorouny

Joan Z. Horhorouny, 87, passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2019.  She was born on August 6, 1932, in Montclair, NJ to A. H. and Mariam Zaratzian.  She was preceded in death by a brother:  Harry Zara; sister-in-law:  Martha Zara; nephew:  Christopher Zara; and niece:  Pamela Langford.

Joanie had many jobs in Montclair, NJ, many friends and a tight knit family.  She later married Eddie in 1959 and moved to Miami, FL.  There she worked for the Dade County Health Department, followed by the City of Coral Gables, FL.  She has always been active in volunteering and contributing to her community.  From animal rights to orphanages she has contributed to so many organizations, charities and private citizens too numerous to list. 

In 1987 she bought her house in Burnsville, sight unseen!  She saw a picture of the willow tree and the babbling brook and these sealed the deal.  Here she created her ideal home and joyful life for her remaining years.  Joanie was a worker bee – everything in its place and nothing left undone.  She worked for the County Health Department, followed by her employment at Country Cable.  This work came to be an integral part of life.  There she developed lifelong friendships and continued to work until May of 2018, when she was 86 years old.              Joanie will be greatly missed by her loving husband of 60 years:  Edwin A. Horhorouny; son:  Vince Horhorouny; niece:  Janet Wiltjer; great niece:  Erin Nieset and family; niece:  Navart Fargnoli and family; special friends:  Bryan Hyder, Lisa Jones, Mary McMahan and many faithful and loving neighbors, coworkers, and caring friends.

We will remember her always for her strength, her quick wit, and her generosity of spirit, and know that we are better for having known her.  What we once enjoyed we can never lose – all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.

A Celebration of Life Memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Compassionate Care WNC, 856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville, NC 28714.

Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home is assisting the Horhorouny family.

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