Obituary for
Joanne Michele Greenland
February 6, 1967 – October 17, 2021
It is with heavy hearts the family announces the passing of Joanne Greenland (nee Hatfield), of Mayerthorpe, AB, formerly of St. John’s, NL, who peacefully passed away at home surround by her loving family, Sunday October 17, 2021, after her courageous battle with cancer.
Joanne was born in St. John’s, February 6, 1967, to Ben and Joan Hatfield, also of St. John’s. Leaving to mourn is her loving and devoted husband of 16 years, Jason; cherished mother, Joan (nee Horlick); brother, Steven (Andrea) Hatfield; sister, Alison (Paul) Penney, and sister-in-law, Coralie. Joanne will be sadly missed by her nephews, Ben, Daniel, and Andrew; nieces, Kristen, and Samantha, who each affectionately called her “Auntie Jojo”; and many more relatives, friends, colleagues, and students.
After completing her schooling at Beaconsfield High, Joanne attended Memorial University studying English and Education, which proved to be her true calling. She held various teaching positions around Newfoundland and finally accepted a position at the Mayerthorpe Junior/Senior High School where she taught for 18 years. It was here that her passion for teaching and the dramatic arts was realized. She was responsible for introducing the annual student-centered live dinner theatre event for the townspeople of Mayerthorpe to enjoy, and to which many local businesses contributed.
Joanne touched the hearts of each of her students, which was evident in the many long-term relationships she cultivated and maintained. She was their teacher, and perhaps even more importantly, their mentor and friend. Joanne’s teaching style provided the respect and feelings of safety for her students, thus creating a space for them to grow in a rich, learning environment.
Joanne was a talented musician; she played in many bands and orchestras, winning awards throughout her youth and adulthood. Joanne had an instinctive way of connecting with people and they responded to her gracious ways, feeling instantly comfortable, as though already a lifelong friend. She was known for her huge heart, her love of animals, and being overwhelmingly generous to all.
Joanne was predeceased by her beloved father, Ben; and younger brother, Larry.
Special thanks to the doctors and staff of the Cross Cancer Institute and Mayerthorpe physicians, Dr. Aird and Dr. Jamal. A huge thank you to the Mayerthorpe Home Care nurses for going above and beyond to support Joanne when she needed it the most.
A private Celebration of Joanne’s Life will be held. To view the livestream of this service, please click on the Webcasting link in the menu on the left side of this page.
Honouring Joanne’s commitment to education and the arts, a scholarship is being created in her name for students of Mayerthorpe Jr/Sr High School. Memorial donations would be appreciated to: Mayerthorpe Jr./Sr. High School, Box 40, Mayerthorpe AB T0E 1N0.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Joanne Michele
Greenland 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Mayerthorpe, Province: Alberta
We were deeply saddened to hear of Joanne’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Greenland family.
Sincerely,
Leonard and Elaine Oates