Joanne E. Carrasco (Marruffo), 80 years old, was called to be with our heavenly father on Thursday, September 24, 2015. She passed peacefully with her family and friends at her bedside. Joanne was born January 24, 1935 in San Jacinto, California to Gregorio and Susan Marruffo.

She will be remembered by all who knew her as having a loving and feisty spirit. She was a longtime resident of Vista and enjoyed taking spontaneous road trips and adventures. Joanne liked to frequent "her casinos" whenever possible. She also took pleasure in spending time with her family, friends, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Joanne was known to us as Mom, Sister, Grandma, Grandma Grandma, Aunt, and Friend. She has touched the hearts of many lives and we were truly blessed to have known her. She will be forever in our hearts and memories.

Joanne is survived by her 7 children, Eva Aguilar (Alfred) of Vista, Frank "Chiefer" Carrasco Jr. (Sharon) of San Marcos, Stephanie Martinez (Rudy) or Vista, Debra Felix (Lionel) of Escondido, Ralph Carrasco (Betsy) of San Marcos, Robert Carrasco (Sina) of Vista, and Timothy "Tim" Carrasco of Escondido; 23 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; her brother, Gilbert Marruffo of Oregon. Her former husband Frank Carrasco as well as many nieces and nephews also survive her.

She has been preceded in death this year by her sister, Lorraine "Gerta" Romero and brother, Melvin "Temo" Marruffo; and brothers, Danny Marruffo, Edward Marruffo Sr., Foster Marruffo Sr., Alfred Marruffo, and David Marruffo; parents, Gregorio and Susan Marruffo.

Joanne was a Native American Indian from the Pala Band of Mission Indians. She had many relatives from surrounding reservations.

The Indian Verse

Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle, autumn's rain.
When you awake in the morning's hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in a circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.

A celebration of Joanne's life will be held on October 23, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the San Diego Christian Center at 1305 Deodar Road in Escondido. A potluck style reception will follow immediately. Please contact one of Joanne's children for details.