Obituary Joan Elise Patterson, 42, of Washington, IL died at 7:35 pm Sunday, December 12, 2010 at Washington Christian Village. She was born on September 17, 1968 in Peoria, IL to Albert E. and LaVerne E. Essig Patterson. Surviving are her mother, LaVerne Patterson of Washington, IL, her cherished daughter, Brooke Elise Patterson at home, who was the inspiration for Joan's courageous battle with cancer, and many loving relatives and friends who sacrificed their time and energy in caring for Joan in her final days. She was preceded in death by her father, Albert. Joan was a 1987 graduate of Washington Community High School, and received her Associate Degree from Midstate College. She worked at the Peoria Journal Star for 17 years, where she was the Secretary to the Computer Operations Manager and later as the Telephone Administrator. She was a member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church and the Kennel Lake Sportsman Club, both in Washington. Joan possessed many talents and was an avid fisherman, lifelong car enthusiast, animal lover, and enjoyed riding 3 wheelers. Always willing to offer help to others, she was described as unselfish, loving, giving, thankful and a faith filled person. Joan's family wishes to thank the many doctors and nurses, especially Dr. Veeder and Dr. McGee, for their excellent care and love shown to Joan during her illness over the past 4 years. Services for Joan will be at 11 am Friday, December 17, 2010 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. Pastor Richard Hanson will officiate. Visitation will be from 4:30-6:30 pm Thursday, December 16, 2010 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Hillcrest Memory Gardens in rural Morton.