Joanne Barrett Lichau

In loving memory, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Joanne Barrett Lichau, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on May 16, 2026, at the age of 84. Joanne was born on March 27, 1942, in the vibrant city of San Francisco, CA, to the late John F. Barrett and Vivian Wilson Barrett. Her life was a testament to love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. Joanne spent her formative years in Santa Rosa, CA, graduating from Montgomery High School in 1960. She furthered her education at Santa Rosa Community College, graduating in 1962. It was in Santa Rosa where she met and fell in love with her future husband, Ron Lichau. They celebrated their union on June 15, 1963, embarking on a journey of love and companionship that lasted 62 wonderful years until Ron's passing. Joanne and Ron built a beautiful life together, raising four children: daughters Adrienne Allen (John) and Kristen Collishaw (Mark), and sons Barry Lichau and Bryan Lichau (Missy). Joanne's love and devotion to her family extended to her nine grandchildren, with whom she shared a special bond, often texting them on game days to discuss their college sports teams. Her love for sports also included a fierce loyalty to her local professional teams, most notably the San Francisco Giants. A woman of many talents, Joanne dedicated 20 years of her career to Placer Savings Bank in Auburn, where her welcoming nature and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on colleagues and clients alike. Even as her professional life flourished, Joanne remained a devoted member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Auburn. Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life, and her involvement in the church community was a source of great joy until health challenges made it difficult for her to attend. Joanne had a passion for gardening, finding tranquility and beauty in nurturing her plants. She was also an enthusiastic participant in her regular bridge group, where her sharp mind and friendly demeanor made her a beloved member. Known for never meeting a stranger, Joanne's friendly and caring nature was a beacon of warmth to everyone she encountered. Joanne was predeceased by her beloved husband Ron, her parents, her brother John Barrett, and her sister Janice Barrett. Her memory will forever be cherished by her surviving family: her daughters and sons, her brother Jim Barrett, her sister Mary Kay Olsen, and her nine grandchildren, who will carry forward her legacy of love and kindness. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Joanne's life at a service on July 10, 2026, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church on Lincoln Way in Auburn. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Foundation, causes that were close to Joanne's heart. Joanne Barrett Lichau's life was a testament to the power of love, the importance of family, and the grace of genuine friendship. Her memory will forever be a source of inspiration and comfort to those who had the privilege of knowing her.