It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of our mom, grammy and just recently great-grammy, to baby Jack. Joan Needham on Sunday, September 13, 2020 at the age of 98yrs. Joan Ellen-Marie Mallet-Paret was born in Kelowna on January 08, 1922, growing up on a farm in the Okanagan Mission with her parents, John and Blanche Mallet-Paret and twin brother, Douglas Mallet-Paret.
Joan had an amazing memory and not only spoke of the farm, the animals, her family, friends and adventures in those early years, but also shared these memories through her paintings, drawings and humorous written vignettes that captured everyday moments in a way that causes pause…and reflection….on what we choose to see in our everyday lives.
Following the Great Depression and her service during the war, Joan married John (Jack) Hewson Needham in June 1949 and together raised their two children Doug and Margaret - and some would say, all the cousins, friends and family during the summer! - on Lakeshore Road. Building the McClure house together, Joan and Jack created a wooded haven that would welcome two grandsons, Jeff (Danielle) and Spencer, daughter-in-law, Karen, multiple four-legged ‘kids’, international students and many friends to enjoy the warmth of home.
Mom was truly a remarkable woman and was a rebel in many respects who liked to push norms - literally and figuratively. In her life she was not just a parent, grammy, gardener, watercolour artist, bridge player, explorer of the cosmic universe, or student of world religions, she was first and foremost a friend and mentor, a helping hand.
Joan would be humbled by the outpouring of love and special memories that have been shared over the past few days. She lived her life with faith and was not afraid of this moment, just curious about what was next. Joan often said that her body was just a vessel for this life, death was a part of living and a new adventure awaits. Together, with Joan’s wisdom to comfort us, we celebrate the passing of her physical self, and honour her mind, soul, and her spirit that lives on within all of us.
There will be a private family service due to Covid restrictions with ashes to be placed at St. Andrew’s Cemetery
In Lieu of flowers, the family welcomes a donation to the SPCA, or other charity of your choosing, in Joan’s name.
Condolences to the family may be sent by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com
Arrangements entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Services, 250-762-2299.
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