Margaret Joan Nicholson

On Thursday, September 17, 2015, Margaret Joan Nicholson (Metcalfe) slipped peacefully from this world to be reunited with her husband Ed. Born November 26, 1931 in Hamilton, ON, Joan dedicated most of her life to raising her family. She was one of the original pioneers (three children in tow) who helped settle the remote northern mining community of Thompson, Manitoba in 1959. Some 30 years later, upon Ed’s retirement, Joan took another leap of faith and moved ‘south’ to North Augusta, Ontario, where she was indoctrinated into the ways of rural gardening! For the next 25 years, along with her devotion to her family, husband, Catholic faith, and-- harvesting produce-- Joan and Ed found time to square dance their way across rural Ontario, building many lasting friendships. Her enduring pioneer spirit brought her to Kamloops where she spent the last 4 years of her life closer to her family. Dearly loved mother of Teresa Knight (James) of Cranbrook, BC; Joe Nicholson (Bobbi) of Kamloops,BC; Lorraine Fair (Barry) of Winnipeg, MB; Dian MacKinnon (Drew) of Sooke, BC, Bernadette Nicholson (Duncan) of Thompson, MB. Cherished mother-in-law of Genelle Nicholson of Regina and Lorraine Nicholson of Fort Qu’Appelle, SK. Revered sister of Gerry (Roy) Smith of Ancaster, ON; Dian (Calum)MacNeil of Selkirk, ON; and Ruth Carr of Winnipeg, MB. and sisters-in-law of Paula McAvoy, Irene Nicholson Beryl Nicholson, and Terry Sadler. Adored auntie to her much loved nieces and nephews.

Devoted Nanny to 24 grandchildren: Graham (Candace)Fair, Sean, Allison (Cory) Aubin & Matthew Fair; Rebecca (Ken) Clara, Cory, Calum, Johanna & Lenny Knight; Brett, Derek, Jordan & Lindsay Nicholson, Bentley, Maggie & Peter MacKinnon; Jeremy (Jenn) Morden, Diana & Danny (Aimee)Nicholson; Riley, Hunter & Sawyer Nicholson; and Tyler (CJ) Bassett & James MacLean.

And 9 great-grandchildren: Lucas, Harrison & Phoenix Nicholson; Cooper Morden; Kadence & Wraiden Clara; Haedyn Fair; and Cassidy & Scottie Bassett.

Joan is predeceased by her husband Ed, sons Craig and Chris, brothers Jack and Jimmy, sister-in-law Mary Sadler, brothers-in-law Peter Nicholson, Martin Nicholson, and Micko Carr.

Joan was a truly amazing woman, a remarkable mother and great teacher of life. She could always be counted on to speak her mind, and her little snippets of wisdom will always remain with us. Through her many physical setbacks, she never lost her sense of humour or her thoughtfulness for others. The primary focus of her prayers, right up until the day she died, was for each one of us. We can take comfort knowing that she’s still got us covered, and that heaven is surely richer ringing with her laughter!

Family and friends may contact Schoening Funeral Home in Kamloops, BC. and are invited to attend a prayer service Friday, September 25, 2015 @ 7 pm held at Sacred Heart Cathedral. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 26 @ 11 am at Sacred Heart Cathedral followed by a short ceremony at the gravesite. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to CNIB, Heart and Stroke, or the charity of your choice.