Joan Louise Martens

Joan is survived by her beloved husband of 65 years, Henry Martens, daughters Shirley (Robi), Susan (Glen) and Sherry (Shawn) as well as her cherished grandchildren Brydie, Kennedy and Caleb; sisters-in-law, Mary, Sara and Linda, brothers-in-law Peter and Dave, a bounty of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews; great-great nieces and nephews, as well as many dear friends who brought countless moments of joy throughout her incredible life.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents James and Phyllis McGarry, and parents-in-law Jake and Marie Martens, siblings, Mary, Bill, Doreen, John, Jim, and Pat, brothers and sisters-in-law John Svajlenko, John Martens, Herb, Cornie, Bill, Marge, Aloha, June and Jean as well as nephew, Jim and great-nephew, Cody.

Joan was born in Neilburg, SK, on September 20, 1935, twenty minutes before her twin brother, John, and grew up on the family farm. She shared many happy stories of their time marked by hard work and the love of a close-knit family. She graduated in 1955 as a Certified Nursing Aide and worked in Lloydminster, Calgary and Uranium City where she met Henry in 1957. After a brief contract in Alert Bay, BC, they married in 1959 and moved into their forever home in Thorncliffe in 1962 where they still resided. She was an amazing wife and mother who worked tirelessly, taking care of her family, which always came first. She kept a garden, sewed clothes for her girls, canned, baked bread, and cooked, hosting family dinners for every occasion. Joan was always there to feed people —be they neighbours, family, or friends — and did so up until her illness. Joan also loved to see the country and the family enjoyed amazing holidays every summer travelling in their trailer along with Grandma McGarry and Penny, the family dog. They saw Canada- coast to coast as well as parts of the US, but time in the Okanagan was especially treasured. These trips were so special and fondly remembered by her husband and daughters.

Joan enjoyed a long career working first at Holy Cross and then at Grace Hospital for 26 years in post-partum care. She loved looking after the new moms and babies, and it was not unusual for strangers to approach her in the grocery store years later, remembering her great care of them. She retired in 1991 and continued to enjoy her home, and garden, walking, going to the pool, trying new food, taking care of her grandkids, volunteering with the Salvation Army kettle campaigns, and travelling to Alaska, the Maritimes, New York, and the Caribbean. Joan was always up for an adventure and ready to try anything including water skiing and riding Space Mountain at Disneyland, but spending time with her family, dreaming up new recipes, and driving in the country to look at the new calves with Henry were her favourites.

Joan was strong, selfless, kind, and generous to all and above all, fiercely proud of her family. Instead of flowers, our beautiful Mom can be honoured by a donation to the Salvation Army Agape Hospice 1302 8th Avenue N.W. Calgary, AB T2N1B8.

The family would like to extend its infinite and humble gratitude to the caring angels of the Agape Hospice who made her brief stay so comfortable.

In memory of Joan, plant a garden, smell the flowers, feed people, and give generously of your time and compassion.