It is with great sadness that the Gander family announces the passing of Joyce Gander, nee Dawson. Joyce died peacefully surrounded by her family on February 11, 2020 after a brief struggle with cancer. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the medical professionals who gave of themselves to provide warm and compassionate care. Joyce began her journey of giving on Sept 2, 1951 in Montreal, Quebec. Her parents, Vincent and Aline Dawson then joined her in welcoming four additional siblings: Shirley (Gerry) Chabot, Steve (Michelle) Dawson, Michael (Lynn) Dawson and Linda (Tom) Jones. Her siblings and their families are now feeling the loss of their “Auntie” and “Big Sister”. On May 23, 1981 Joyce married Terry in Mississauga. She will be greatly missed by her husband, her two children Jennifer and Jason (Josée) as well as her grandchildren Dawson, Esmée and Tytan. As a person with a warm heart and generous nature; Joyce touched the lives of the countless friends she made as a good neighbour, as an organizer of Tiny Tots preschool group, and as a member of the Grace United Church. Joyce centered her life around family, community, music, enjoying the outdoors and education. Her attitude and her commitment to the above was a shining example to all who knew her. A banker by vocation but a teacher at the core, once settled in Sudbury Joyce opened her home and her heart to a number of kids through her childcare services and the aforementioned preschool group. Children were her joy and her skill with them was legendary, especially with her “magic bag” of fun activities. A very creative person, Joyce always set a beautiful table, helped keep her church well decorated, sang in the choir and joined her daughter in creating wreaths, themed parties, parade floats and more. A service will be held at St. Peters United Church at 11:00 am on Monday, February 17th. Mom, our lives were made so much richer for having you in them, we would like to celebrate your life with a reunion of your friends and family in the spring. Donations (by cheque) in Joyce’s memory can be made towards the rebuilding of Grace United Church.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Joyce Gander 2020..
Death notice for the town of: Sudbury, Province: Ontario