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It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joyce at the age of 87 years.
Joyce married young and entered into military life with her husband, Norm Thorsen (deceased), and enjoyed life with her two children – Lee (deceased) and Sherri Thorsen. They lived in a number of cities across Canada before settling in Sherwood Park, AB in 1966, where Joyce continued her career as a social worker.
Following her divorce in 1979, she met the absolute love of her life and married Bill Gillanders on October 9, 1982. Joyce was thrilled to expand her family to include Bill’s sons – Keith and Brian.
Bill’s retirement took them to Duncan, BC in 1987, where they enjoyed gardening, family and friend gatherings, church activities, travelling and, mostly, spending time together.
Their final move was to Nanaimo, BC in November 2015, where they made many new friends and enjoyed being close to Bill’s son Keith and his wife Rosemary. Sadly, Bill passed away on March 11, 2020.
Joyce is fondly remembered in life by her daughter Sherri, grandchildren Chris and Andrea (Braeden) and great-grandson Hudson; daughter-in-law Shelley and grandchildren Cole (Elizabeth) and Kiera (Kyle); stepsons Keith (Rosemary) and Brian (Eva) and grandchildren Scott and Erin (Alex); sister June (Rod) and her nieces Alison (Mike) and Adrienne (Dan).
Joyce was challenged with MS for 60 years, but faced her challenges with an ever positive attitude and determination. She endeared herself to everyone she met with her cheerful personality, great sense of humor, feistiness and infectious laughter.
Joyce enjoyed a long life of happiness, shared with Bill, family and friends. After the passing of Bill and with more health challenges, her days were filled with less joy and God wrapped her in his arms and took her home to Heaven to be reunited with Bill and her son Lee.
Special thanks to Keith and Rosemary for all the love and support provided over the years and to the staff at The Berwick for their kindness and care.
In her memory, be cheerful and hug someone you love!
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Joyce Patricia Gillanders nee Nalli November 15 1934
December 14 2021..
H. W. Wallace Cremation and Burial Centre
Décès pour la Ville: Duncan, Province: Colombie britanique