Elizabeth Joan Bear March 12, 1928 - March 30, 2016 Del Mar Joan Bear, born Elizabeth Joan Hamann on March 12, 1928, went to our Lord peacefully on March 30, 2016 at her home in Del Mar, California surrounded by family. She was preceded by her parents, Alfonse Michael Hamann and Alice Geraldine (Elliott) Hamann, her daughter Antoinette Carlson and her beloved husband of fifty-one years, Deacon Benjamin L. "Ted" Bear Jr. The oldest of four children, Joan was a loving mother of thirteen children, grandmother of fifteen and great-grandmother of two. Joan was a fervent advocate for life, particularly for the unborn. This was exhibited in many ways through her faithful life's example and included opening her home, along with Ted, to many pregnant young women. Joan was raised in Orange County, California, received her bachelor's degree from Lone Mountain College in San Francisco (now USF) where she met her soulmate, Ted. They moved to and raised their family in Southern California. Joan was dedicated to the service of others and was always very active in her Catholic parishes. Her vast ministry work included teaching CCD, establishing with Ted and sustaining the Del Mar Track Ministry and serving in many Deaconate and Liturgical Ministry capacities. Joan was a wonderful cook, a gracious host, and an avid sports enthusiast. Joan lived her life aspiring to do the will of God. She was a daily communicant, gave charitably to various organizations, and as a Third Order Carmelite, it is most fitting that she passed during the Holy Easter Octave. Joan's life has been a beautiful reflection of the goodness, joy, hospitality, love and compassion of the Lord, who was central in her life. She will be missed by all graced to know her! A Rosary Service will be held at 7 PM on April 14th, and a Catholic Liturgy celebrating Joan's life will be at 11 AM on April 15th at St. James Church, Solana Beach, CA.