Joan Marie Portillo's Obituary
Joan Marie Portillo, 72, of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday evening, February 16, 2025, one day shy of her 73rd birthday.
Born February 17, 1952, in Oklahoma City to Ray Martin and Betty Lou (Russel) Dankbar, Joan spent her early years in Oklahoma City before moving to Bixby during her teenage years when her father's career with Amoco relocated the family. A proud graduate of Bixby High School's Class of 1970, Joan was raised in the Catholic faith and carried its values throughout her life.
An active and devoted member of Bixby Christian Church for many years, Joan shared her faith and talents in numerous ways. As a member of the Praise Team, she helped lead worship services with her musical gifts. Her creative abilities shone through as she dedicated time to designing and painting backdrops and setting up props for Vacation Bible School and church plays. Joan enthusiastically participated in the annual Fun Fairs and took special pride in organizing and hosting the church's beloved St. Patrick's Day fellowship dinners, bringing the congregation together in celebration and community.
Joan's profound love for animals defined much of her character. Her compassionate heart extended to all living creatures, from rescue animals she cared for over the years to the geese she would watch in the Walmart parking lot. Her life's activities centered around livestock, and she insisted on having her beloved animals near her at all times.
On a memorable blind date chaperoned by their mutual friend Jackie at Casa Bonita, Joan met Robert Portillo. By the end of the evening, the chaperone was politely dismissed, marking the beginning of a beautiful romance that would lead to 32 years of wonderful marriage. The couple wed on November 7, 1992, at the Bixby Christian Church and honeymooned at Miss Pricilla's Cottages in Eureka Springs.
Joan's love for helping others led her to become a home health aide, a career she dedicated many years to before retiring.
Before facing mobility limitations, Joan was an enthusiastic traveler who enjoyed visits to Disney, the Gulf Coast, the Smoky Mountains, and Graceland's Heartbreak Hotel. More recently, she delighted in multiple trips to Silver Dollar City in Branson. When not traveling, Joan expressed her creativity through painting and cherished game nights with her family.
Those who knew Joan remember her as spunky, caring, and intelligent, with a strong personality tempered by patience and kindness. Her social nature and love for people made her a joy to be around.
Joan is survived by her loving husband, Robert, and her five siblings: Joyce Kociuk and husband Tom, Michael Dankbar and wife Jackie, Pat Dankbar, Paul Dankbar, and Janette Mullis and husband Lester, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Betty Lou Dankbar.
A memorial ceremony celebrating Joan's remarkable life will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, March 1, in the Rivercrest Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Tulsa SPCA, honoring Joan's lifelong dedication to animal welfare.
What’s your fondest memory of Joan?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joan?
Share a story where Joan's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joan you’ll never forget.
How did Joan make you smile?