March 7th, 1948 - August 27th, 2023
Joanne passed away peacefully in her sleep, at Southlake Regional Health Centre at 4:55 a.m., at the age of 75. Loving wife of Richard for 43 wonderful years. Beloved mom of Sandra (Bryan), Laura (Brett), Paula (Josh). Proud grandma to Chayce (14), Deacon (13), Brooklyn (11), and Caleb (3). Cherished sister of Carol, Gloria, Cathy, and Dave. Predeceased by her brothers Donny and Lorne “Butch”, and sisters, Shirley, Marion, Joyce and Lorna.
Joanne was a vibrant, fun-loving person. She and her husband Richard enjoyed many adventures together, trips to Switzerland, Austria, Hawaii, road trips as far North as the Yukon, cruises in the Caribbean and of course the annual visit to Las Vegas where she could be found trying her luck on the slot machines. She was a skilled Bingo player (although some say it was just good luck), she would team up with her friend to increase their chances of winning and then would split their earnings. Joanne was a skilled knitter, making many beautiful Afghans. She was an avid reader, Danielle Steel being one of her favourite authors.
The true centre of Joanne’s life was her family. Raising her three daughters with her husband was one of the greatest joys of her life. She was the best grandma anyone could ask for, she was overjoyed when the first of the grandchildren was born and her love grew as each one joined the family. She made sure to spoil them all as much as she could. Trips to grandma and grandpa’s house was always something they looked forward to. We will always remember her for her big heart, her caring nature and her selflessness.
After 6 months of seemingly endless appointments trying to find out the cause of her declining health, Joanne was diagnosed with cancer. She bravely fought until she was declared cancer free after 4 months of treatment. Throughout the doctors appointments, difficult and painful treatments Joanne’s disposition never wavered. She never complained and kept a positive attitude to help keep herself and her family motivated during the most difficult of times.
Special thank you to the nurses who looked after Joanne in her final hours and a very special thank you to Dr. Anglin at the Stronach Cancer Centre, your care and support during mom’s battle with cancer is something we will never forget.
A Celebration of Joanne’s life will be held at the Roadhouse & Rose Funeral Home, 157 Main St. S., Newmarket, on Saturday, September 16 from 1-3 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations to the Stronach Cancer Centre (via the Southlake Foundation) would be greatly appreciated.
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