Joanne Lynn Stark

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Joanne Lynn Stark after a very lengthy battle with ALS. Diagnosed 25 years ago, the disease progressed very slowly but had accelerated in the past few years.

Growing up in Burnaby, Joanne graduated from Burnaby South Senior Secondary school in 1976. She appeared in many plays and musicals, with her most memorable roles as Miss Adelaide in "Guys and Dolls" and Dolly in "Hello Dolly". After high school she went on to take part time studies in English and Theatre and UBC.

Over the years, starting in high school Joanne worked at Woodward's Department Stores, in both New Westminster and downtown Vancouver stores in Customer Service.

In 1989 she made a career move to CGI Inc. in Burnaby, working in numerous roles in Technical Services and Human Resources.

Joanne kept in contact with many of her childhood friends and her co-workers.

Joanne, along with her friends and family members, has participated in the annual Move to End ALS for many years and has raised over $100,000.00 to support ALS research to help fund equipment loan programs.

She is predeceased by her father, Joe Stark. Survived by her mother, Glenna, her older brother Terry (Kathy), nephew Andrew and niece Emily.

Many thanks for the services and support from the ALS Society of BC, the ALS Clinic, the Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program, Vancouver Island Home Support, Sue's Seniors Care, Kara's Caring Home Support, Ohana Care, Anchor Family Medicine and many friends and family, especially her dear Mumsie Glenna.

Stubborn to the end, Joanne's words of encouragement to herself were "Tomorrow I may not be able to do this, but today is not that day!"

No service by request. No flowers due to allergies.

Donations to ALS research can be made by going to: alsbc.ca/donate/