JOYCE JOHNSTON

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JOYCE JOHNSTON April 3, 1933 - September 28, 2010 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Phylis Joyce Johnston on Tuesday, September 28, 2010. Joyce was wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, confidant and teacher. She was a terrific person who was very proud of her children and always there for us. Joyce is survived by her loving husband of 38 years, Ron; sons, David (Debbie), Jeff (Jacquie), Randy; daughter Linda (Bill); stepson Rob (Sheryl) and stepdaughter Gail (Glen); grandchildren Jen, Scott, Andrew, Nick, Aaron, Brian, James, Tristan; great-granddaughter Sahara; sister-in-law Lily, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Edward and Victoria, and her brother Eddy. Joyce was born in Geraldton, Ontario and lived in several of the small mining communities of northern Ontario. Joyce loved music. She taught piano and served as one of the youngest church organists in Canada. Mom had many passions and interests especially flowers and plants. There wasn't much she couldn't and wouldn't grow. Her homes always had at least one room dedicated to plants. She was also a puzzle pro. Crosswords were a constant daily happening. There weren't enough puzzle books to keep her busy. There were also many, many jigsaws done over the years; including 3D ones and a huge 4000 piece puzzle. At Christmas time she set up an incredible display of a miniature village that took over the entire dining room. Square dancing was a huge part of Mom's life. She had a beautiful singing voice which led to her being a caller for nearly 40 years. She taught hundreds of people to enjoy square dancing and for some time was the only female caller in Manitoba. She was a part of many clubs, including Frontier Flutterwheels, Steinbach Daisy Chains, Whirlaway Westerners and St. Vital Swingers. She enjoyed all her clubs, but had a special place in her heart for her Tuesday afternoon group, St. Vital Swingers. The family wishes to express their deep gratitude for the gracious and compassionate care given to Mom by the wonderful staff at the Palliative Care Unit at St. Boniface Hospital. They are truly exceptional people. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held Friday, October 1, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Voyage Funeral Home, 220 Hespeler at Henderson Highway.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 30, 2010