Joan Ann Hannusch

Joan Ann Hannusch (nee Britton) passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener, Ontario on February 17, 2026. Joan was born the 2nd of 3 daughters on November 9, 1938, in Galt, now Cambridge, Ontario, to parents Ernest and Alice, and always remembered the community that helped raise her after Ernest’s death in 1939. She attended Galt Collegiate Institute, where she played basketball, won the title of “Posture Queen”, and was a dedicated student. She pursued her Licensed Practical Nursing degree from South Waterloo Memorial Hospital and practiced as a nurse for 40 years. Answering to shouts of “Joanie!”, she would gently patch up countless cuts and bruises for neighbors, children, and grandchildren.

She married her beloved husband and best friend, Peter, on April 4th, 1959. A lover of the outdoors, together they spent many years traveling, visiting friends and family, camping, fishing, playing cards, and gardening. Their Cambridge home featured immaculately cared-for gardens, in which they spent many hours enjoying the company of friends, family, and their rambunctious kitties. Never one to sit still, Joan enjoyed sewing and knitting, and frequently outfitted grandchildren in head-to-toe pajamas (or “jammies”).

We remember Mom and Gramma hosting holiday dinners for up to 25 friends and family members and making it look easy. Her love for the Blue Jays was only topped by her love for her family; she wanted to be at every grandchild’s sports event, graduation, or celebration possible. She was a cherished member of Cedar Hill United Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Peter; her sisters, Ellen and Barbara; and her daughter, Ellen. She is dearly missed by her three children, Michael, Bradley (Elizabeth), and Darlene (Frank), 11 grandchildren, and countless friends and community members. We will miss you forever, but we are just saying “Bye-bye for now.”

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Coutts Funeral Home, 96 St. Andrew's Street, Cambridge on Saturday, February 21 at 10:00 a.m., with a reception to follow in the lounge.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared through the funeral home.