Joan Patricia Loehr

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that the family of Joan Patricia Loehr (nee Piper) announce her passing on May 31, 2026, in Kamloops, BC. Joan was born December 2, 1936, in Kamloops, British Columbia, to parents Cliff and Mary (nee Rigby) Piper.

Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband and best friend of 59 years, Leo Quirin Loehr; her parents, Cliff and Mary; her sisters, Judy and Linda; and Leo’s siblings and their spouses. She is survived by her loving children, Geoffrey (Nicole), Regan (Shelly), Kent, Joel, Jarett (Patricia), and Mary (Kleo); her cherished grandchildren, Tyler (Francesca), Brandon (Andrea), Kaleena (Joseph), Kyle, Olivia (Chris), Hermione, Ava, Sophia, Izzy, Nikolas, Annella, Paulina, and James; her eight great-grandchildren; her brother and sister-in-law, Ted (Rolande) Piper; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Joan graduated from St. Paul’s Hospital School of Nursing in Vancouver in 1958 and began her career at Royal Inland Hospital, where she worked until the birth of her first child. She then devoted many years to raising her six children, always placing her family at the centre of her life. In the mid-1980s, she returned to work as the secretary at Sacred Heart Cathedral, where she served faithfully for 17 years.

Joan met the love of her life, Leo, in Kamloops, and they married on January 9, 1960. Together they built a life grounded in faith, partnership, and a deep commitment to family that continued throughout their years together.

Her Catholic faith was a guiding force in Joan’s life. She was a longtime member of the Catholic Women’s League and was deeply involved in parish life. She had a strong and lasting connection to St. Ann’s Academy, where she attended school before completing her final years at Kamloops High School, and where all six of her children were educated at various times. Many of her grandchildren also attended St. Ann’s, something that brought her great pride. She remained a dedicated supporter of the school community for many years.

Joan and Leo created a life rich in family experiences and cherished memories. They spent time on various properties around Kamloops, where their children grew up with a love of the outdoors and time spent together. Family trips were always a highlight, including the memorable drive to Disneyland, visits to Tofino, Victoria, and the prairies to see extended family, as well as Alaska cruises and many trips to Reno.

Family was what came first for Joan. She made every effort to attend the many activities of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whether cheering at sporting events, enjoying theatre performances, or listening proudly at school concerts. For many years, she lovingly operated what became known as “Grandma’s daycare,” creating a home filled with care, routine, and warmth.

One of Joan’s most treasured traditions was the Loehr family Christmas. She insisted that her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren gather together every other year to celebrate as a family. These gatherings reflected her deep love of family and her belief in the importance of staying connected across generations.

Joan’s life was a testament to quiet strength, steady faith, and unwavering devotion to her family. She found her greatest joy in those she loved, and her legacy will live on in the traditions she created and the family she held so close. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to Dr. Kraig Montalbetti, the ICU staff at RIH, and the many priests who supported Joan with such compassion and care. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joan’s memory may be made to the Kamloops St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Prayers will be held at Holy Family Parish on Thursday, June 18, at 7:00 pm. The Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Parish on Friday, June 19, at 10:00 am.

Livestream Link - https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=86e236c4-fbc0-4573-85a4-0be48cc0a955