Joann Marks

JoAnn Marie Zauri Marks, 72, of Idaho Falls, passed away June 7, 2016, at her home.

JoAnn was born in San Diego, California, on June 16, 1943, to Joseph and Ruth Zauri. She was the eldest of five siblings, Mike, Anthony, Angela, and Sammy who she loved so very dearly. During the week you'd find her wading in the ocean tide pools just blocks away from home. She'd visit her grandmother Elvira on the weekends to learn the art of generosity, faith, love and authentic Italian cuisine.

High school introduced her to her lifelong sweetheart, Ron. He made her his by pulling her onto his lap in the middle of class with no introduction and the rest is history. They married in August of 1962 and began to build a family with their two beloved children, Jenee and Glenn. They were married for 53 years.

JoAnn held a prestigious position in her banking career at Peninsula Bank of Pt. Loma, a home grown financial institution founded by childhood friends.

Ron and JoAnn eventually left their childhood roots to build their dream homes in the mountains of Idaho and Wyoming. They shared an intense love for the outdoors through horseback riding, camping, hunting and fishing.

One of JoAnn's greatest joys was being a grandmother to her grandchildren: Bobbi, Josh, Olivia, Ethan, Savanna, and only great grandchild, DevonTay. She shared with them her passion for the outdoors, arts, gardening, and home cooked meals.

She spent her most recent years in Idaho Falls with her mother Ruth nearby. Together they traveled throughout Europe, Central America, and the US.

After being diagnosed with cancer in early August of 2014, she continued to make the best of her situation and live life to the fullest. She dreamed and fought to the very end. JoAnn was a beautiful person and loved by all that knew her.

"The tide recedes but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand; The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land; The music stops, and yet it echoes on in sweet refrains… For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains." -Hadin Marshall

A gathering will be held in her honor Monday, June 13th, at 6 p.m. at the Marks residence, 3619 Grove Lane. Her official Celebration of Life will be held in San Diego at the end of July. In lieu of flowers we ask that donations be made to the Wounded Warriors Project in JoAnn's honor. We thank you as a family for the support we've received from the community.

Memorial Gathering will be held