Joan Violet Tennant

Joan Violet Tennant (née Billington) February 12th, 1930 – July 10th, 2019 Our beautiful and beloved Joan passed away, with her cherished husband of 65 years holding her hand. Joan was surrounded by family and love, with Ferncliff flowers and a photo of her adored retriever Sage at her bedside. Joan is survived by those who loved her so much – her husband John, sister Ann, son Craig (Marion, Samantha, Jennifer), daughter Susan Climie (David, Philip, Jillian), and the many friends and relatives she adored and valued in Vancouver, on Bowen Island, and beyond. Born on Bowen Island, Joan attended elementary school on the island and took high school by correspondence. After graduation, she completed business college in Vancouver, and then worked for years in a dental office. She shared a tiny bachelor apartment at 4th and Alma with her sister Ann, who moved out prior to Joan and John getting married. Joan accomplished so much in her 89 years, and did so with grace and humility. Joan cared so deeply for her family, friends, and her golden retrievers. Bright as can be, always inquisitive, always learning, some of Joan’s most cherished times were her years auditing courses at UBC and volunteering at the Museum of Anthropology. She had so many interests and hobbies, derived great pleasure discussing current events, loved music, was a voracious reader, had great fun playing bridge, enjoyed her ‘stitching’, and loved to laugh. Joan and John enjoyed travelling abroad, and had many wonderful adventures with family and friends. They were always happiest when they returned to Bowen Island, where they loved to garden and entertain. John and the family are blessed to have shared their lives with Joan, and are so sad to say farewell. They thank the medical teams who cared for her these past few weeks, and the staff and residents at Tapestry who quickly became dear friends. At Joan’s request, there will be no service. The family will honour Joan, and will hold her dear in their hearts every day. Joan asked that this Joyce Grenfell poem be shared: If I should go before the rest of you, Break not a flower nor inscribe a stone, Nor when I’m gone speak in a Sunday voice, But the usual selves that I have known. Weep if you must, parting is hell, But life goes on, so sing as well. She often recited this poem by J.B. Downie, which is dedicated to those she loved: There’s a long, long winding road That never wearies me, A road I often travel when Old friends I wish to see; That road is called “Sweet Memory”, So old, yet ever new, And I oft in fancy wander there To laugh and talk with you. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Museum of Anthropology, the Bowen Island Museum & Archives, or a charity of your choice. Rest in peace beloved Wife, Mom, Mom-in-Law, Grandma, Friend. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit our website at www.mountpleasantfuneral.com