

March 29, 1929 – July 26, 2016
On July 26th, after a long life filled with remarkable events, Joan reunited with her beloved husband Gordon to continue their journey together.
Joan was an outstanding woman, daughter, wife, Mum, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Opening her heart to anyone in need, she would give caring advice, make a thoughtful gesture or simply listen. With a smile, a hug, and often a joke, she reminded us all of the brighter side of life. Joan was a true woman of heart. Her love was boundless. A generous spirit, vivacious personality and love of fun was evident to all who met her. She exuded kindness, always taking the time to comfort a loved one or help a stranger.
Born in Oshawa, she was raised and educated in England from the age of 2. Joan charmed everyone with her English accent and very British sense of humour. After moving to Canada, she fell in love with Gordon and together they embarked on their journey. They worked side-by-side, running a successful business in Mississauga until retirement in 1976.
As an exceptional “Mum”, she was impassioned about passing on her unquestionable values and endless love to her two children, Meryl and Paul. Eager to contribute to the community, Joan devoted time to helping others. In 1964 she became a life-long dedicated community volunteer. In later years, she jazzed up the Cambridge senior scene with her lighthearted flair.
Those close to Joan will remember the fun times with her: huge family New Year’s Eve parties, cottage weekends at the Crowe, awesome lemon meringue pies, scrumptious orange sunshine cakes, epic chili sauce, rum-infused Christmas cakes, elaborate Sunday dinners, elegantly decorated wedding cakes, fun-filled vacations with friends, English comedies, sewing up a storm, hand quilting, knitting and crocheting, creative custom-card making, sing-a-longs and dancing, ‘oldies’ piano and organ playing, euchre parties, Vegas penny slots, emailed funnies, winters in Florida, figure skating escapades, Caribbean, Alaskan and European cruises, morning exercise workouts, outings to the Peterborough Zoo with grandchildren Tanya, Dan and Sheena, and years of family adventures with Gordon, Meryl, son-in-law Paul and granddaughter Julia.
Lest we forget her love of all animals great and small, Joan took comfort in love and lickies from her cherished furry “girls” who will greatly miss her generous cuddles.
To Nancy, you are not only an amazing therapist, but a woman of unmatched compassion. To all Joan’s caregivers since her stroke in 2012, we truly appreciate the care and respect provided. Our family sends a heartfelt thanks to all who shared their love and support.
In honour of Joan’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family farewell has occurred. Please take a moment to celebrate her life with a smile, and offer a small act of kindness to brighten someone’s day. Joan will be greatly missed by many, especially her family, whose lives she profoundly and lovingly shaped.
Donations in Joan’s memory can be made to the Cambridge Stroke Recovery Association or the Cambridge & District Humane Society.
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