Joan was born in Edmonton to her parents Margaret and Vincent Bergin and grew up in the Alberta Peace River district. Graduating Normal School in 1947, and seeking an adventure Joan secured her first teaching role in the tiny public school at Alert Bay, BC. Two years later Joan moved on to teach in the new Sea Island Elementary school in Richmond before settling down in Campbell River in 1962 where she taught and inspired young students at Cedar Elementary right up to her retirement at age 65.
Joan quickly developed many lifelong friendships in Campbell River. She was a founding member of the Campbell River Curling Club and an avid curler playing and bonspieling well into her ‘80s. Joan was an active bridge player, boater, local arts and culture champion, museum volunteer and, after her retirement, a world traveler. Joan will be greatly missed by her many friends and family.
Joan is predeceased by her husband Verne and survived by her sons Bill (Deb), Alex (Allison), grandchildren Marissa (Kesh), Evan (Karen), Madison and great grandchildren Lyra and Aquila.
