Joan Kulbida

Joan was born Doris Joan Bracken on May 15, 1940, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Not long after, her family moved to Island Falls, where she spent her childhood. She often shared stories about growing up there—it was a place that always held a special place in her heart.

As a teenager, Joan moved to Regina for school, boarding with the Forrest family and becoming part of their extended household. It was there she met Lee and Donna, who became lifelong friends. After completing school in Regina, she moved to Saskatoon to attend Saskatoon Business College.

Joan had a long and meaningful career at Sears, working in the Ladies Fashions department. She loved her job, her coworkers, and the customers she helped over the years. The day Sears closed was a hard one, but the friendships she made there lasted long after her retirement.

In July 1962, Joan married Joe Kulbida, and they shared a loving life together until Joe's passing in 2012. Joan was also predeceased by her parents, Ken and Doris Bracken.

She is survived and deeply missed by her sons: Mark (Jane) and Scott (Leanne); grandchildren: Ryan (Victoria), Kellie (Brett), Kate (Kieran), Jordan, Nevaeh, and Amy (Jordyn); and great-grandchildren: Lake and Hansyn. She will also be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Joan was incredibly proud of her grandchildren—they were her everything. She lit up when talking about them and celebrated their accomplishments, big or small, with pure joy.

Joan was known for her warmth, and sense of style— always topping off her outfit with a special pin. If she ever shared a recipe, it often came with one key ingredient or step mysteriously left out, leaving everyone else’s version just a little off from hers.

She loved going out for dinner, catching a good movie, and spending evenings at Persephone Theatre. Some of her favorite times were outings shared with her dear friends Irene, Liz, and Rita.

Joan will be remembered for her warmth, and the deep love she had for those lucky enough to know her.

It was Joan’s wish to be cremated, and a private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the Hospice at Glengarda.