Joan F. Soluri, 72, of Lewiston, NY, died on Tuesday February 2, 2010. As her wish, she passed away peacefully at home in the loving embrace of her niece Pamela and her nephews Albert and Patrick, with her beloved cats Sami and Gizzmo at her side on.

Born in Welland, Ontario on October 6, 1937, Joan came to the United States as a young girl, where she lived in Niagara Falls for several years. She moved to Lewiston in the early 1970's to be close to her sister and closest friend Georgia. Joan graduated from Niagara Falls High School after which she began working at the Fort Niagara Air Base. Soon thereafter, she pursued a passion and graduated from cosmetology school, practicing at Mico's. She continued employment at the Air Base, then located in Niagara Falls. After several years, Joan transferred to Drug Enforcement in Buffalo. She finished her long career in government service when she retired from the Lewiston Post Office in March 2000.

Joanie was a loving, adoring aunt and mother figure whose deepest fulfillment came from showering her nieces and nephews with love and affection. She enjoyed cruising around town in her candy apple red Mustang making frequent stops to visit and share laughter with friends at the Village Bake Shop, Wegmans, Tops and Cathy's Hair Port. Joan loved reminiscing with her dear friend and neighbor, Paulette, and her devoted friends and caregivers Beverly, Amy, Pat and Barbara. She had a genuine love of all animals, particularly her cats; and was a lifelong contributor to the S.P.C.A.

Joan is survived by her niece Pamela (Michael) Wishowski of Lewiston, NY, two nephews Patrick (Cyndi) Whitehead of Lewiston, NY and Albert (Anne) Whitehead III of Tonawanda, NY, three great-nieces, Breanna and Gabrielle Whitehead and Erica Wishowski; three great-nephews, Albert Whitehead IV, Aiden Whitehead and Theodore Wishowski, as well as several cousins. She was predeceased by her parents Ralph and Mary (Stevens) Soluri, her sister and best friend Georgia (Albert) Whitehead, Jr. and her special uncle Mike Stevens.

There will be no prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday February 6th at 10 a.m. in St. Peter's Church, 620 Center Street, Lewiston, NY with Rev. Sebastian Pierro officiating. Entombment will be held in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Niagara County S.P.C.A., 2100 Lockport Rd. Niagara Falls, NY 14304 or to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr. Lockport, NY 14094.