Obituary Overview
Joan Johnston
Joan Doloris Johnston
(nee Robinson)
May 26, 1933 – July 1, 2018
The first day of July was the last day of Joan’s compassionate, joyful life. She passed away peacefully in the early morning hours at Beausejour Hospital and will be remembered as a kind and beautiful soul. A vivacious, generous spirit, Joan’s smile lit up every room and everyone was graciously welcomed into her home with happiness.
Joan was predeceased by her husband Paul, parents Irene and John Eddy Gilbert Robinson, her brother Duke, her parents-in-law Thomas and Millicent Johnston. She is survived by her brother Rick Robinson (Loretta), sister-in-law Shirl Robinson, Uncle Don and Lydia Robinson and her five children John (Alrene), Tom (Brenda), Melodie (Marty), Ted (Pat), Steve (Jacquie) and daughters-in-law Trish and Jackie. Her grandchildren Sean, Kyla, Paul, Tommy, Dustin, Melanie, Martin, Jason, Brandy, Aaron, Arlen, Julia, Amie, Scott, Jered and their spouses/partners are deeply saddened to no longer have their adored Nana in their lives. Her many great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews love her and will miss her. Her dear life-long friend Bunny (Bill) was special to Joan and her family and they, as her other good friends, will miss her.
Joan was born in St. James and was the oldest child of three. Her beloved grandparents were prominent figures in her early childhood years, where she summered with them in Emerson, Manitoba. She attended St. Mary’s Academy and had an accomplished young dance career. She met her husband Paul when she was 15. They married in 1950 and moved to Sudbury, Ontario before settling down to raise their family in East Kildonan. Their home was brimming with children, music, dancing, rescued animals, and a distinct organized chaos.
As a mother first and foremost she was devoted to her children, providing a constant source of support and love. Joan was the center of the family, passing on her love of travel and the importance of time spent together. From quiet afternoons with her jigsaw puzzles, to hosting the annual family Christmas party, she gifted those around her with wonderful memories. Joan cherished her role as Mom and Nana for three generations.
She enjoyed a long career at the Hudson’s Bay Company where she worked in ladies’ fashion and then their credit office. Before retiring young to enjoy time with her closely held family, she was a proud member of the HBC Choir. Joan loved fashion and the arts, presenting herself with style, and sang and danced her way through life with elegance and the grace of a forever ballerina.
Heartfelt thanks to the staff at Beausejour Hospital for their compassionate professionalism. Special thanks to “The Sunrisers” of KinPlace in Oakbank for their friendship and caring.
A celebration of Joan’s life will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, July 26, 2018 at Desjardins Funeral Chapel, 357 DesMeurons Street. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Winnipeg’s Children’s Hospital Foundation, Pediatric Oncology Unit, 840 Sherbrook St, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0Z3.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Joan Johnston 2018.source
Death notice for the town of: Winnipeg, Province: Manitoba