Joan Cygan Wanicki (Brecksville, OH) Joan came to BBHHS in her Freshman Year. She attended the 9^th and 10^th and half of the 11^th Grade at Brecksville. Joan moved to Garfield Hts and graduated from Garfield Hts. High School. She was fortunate to make many good friends at Brecksville and also at Garfield.

While Joan was attending Garfield Hts. High School, she also enrolled at the Ohio Beauty College of Cosmetology. In December of 1960, she went to State Board in Columbus, Ohio, passed her test, and earned her Managing Cosmetology License.

In her freshman year, Joan met Larry Wanicki, “Class of 57” on seniors last day. They dated for 4 years and in May of 1961 they were married.

Joan and Larry were blessed with 3 children. Debbie was born in 1962, Russell was born in 1963, and Cheri was born in 1964. They also have 4 Grandchildren. Jenna is 23, Dylan is 18, Vince is 12, and Max is 11. They are extremely fortunate their family all lives close by in Strongsville and North Royalton.

Joan was a “Stay-at-home” Mom for many years. In 1984, their youngest daughter, Cheri got married and Joan decided to go to work at Dunham Elementary School Cafeteria in the kitchen. Joan retired 2 years ago in July (2007) from Independence Primary School as the Head Cook Cafeteria Manager.

For recreation, Joan and Larry started boating and fishing in Lake Erie in 1965. In 1973, they purchased their first travel trailer and went on the road.  Their most favorite place is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina where Joan is presently on the beach writing this.

In 1993, they moved back to Brecksville and truly enjoy the “country living”. One of Joan’s personal pleasures is cooking and baking. She also enjoys canning and freezing their harvest from their large beautiful garden.

In her spare time, she also enjoys doing ceramics, some sewing, estate sales, antiques, and visiting the Casinos.

Their family is also a “big” part of their lives.