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JOAN (JOANIE) DIANNE PARKINSON (EVANS)
Date of Passing: Oct 15, 2020
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JOAN (JOANIE) DIANNE PARKINSON
(nee EVANS)
1941 - 2020
Although Joan struggled for many years, being hospitalized for prolonged periods of time, her positive attitude never wavered as she took her health challenges in stride. She squeezed the goodness out of life in such a way that many never knew of her difficulties. She was a true warrior!
Predeceased by her parents, Alec and Lillian Evans; her husband Dion Parkinson and her brother Robert, she will be forever remembered by her children, Debbie (Dan) of Edmonton, Kevin (Claudia) of Edmonton; siblings, Gaile (Doug) of Spruce Grove, Brian (Shirle) of Winnipeg, her beloved constant travel companion and longtime friend RJ of Calgary, several nieces and nephews, two grandsons, four great-grandchildren and many relatives and friends throughout Western Canada.
Regardless of where Joanie was or who she was with, everyone loved having her around because she was a joy to be with. She had a constant smile for everyone and was always interested in what you had to say. Whenever the opportunity arose, she would sing and dance, particularly to those 'good ole rock 'n roll' songs.
Born and raised in Winnipeg, MB, Joanie lived a full life before moving to Alberta in the 80s. Her career included a significant role with the Jaycee/Jaycette club in Winnipeg before heading West to Edmonton where she managed a ladies fashion store for years before moving to Calgary to continue the role of Manager. Looking for a change, she worked for Rexall Drug store in Douglasglen as a postal clerk for nine plus years before retiring to dance to her own tune and travel.
We are so thankful to staff on Unit 68, South Health Campus, Calgary for going above and beyond to console Joan, providing reassurance, compassion, and a listening ear to her during our absence. For two years Joan became a favourite of nurse Rebecca (NP) who bought her books and candy for comfort. We are humbly grateful for the care you provided to our Mother, Sister, Grandmother, and Auntie.
Joannie has been cremated and because of the COVID-19 restrictions there will only be a small private Celebration of Life.
Messages of condolence may be left for the family at McInnis and Holloway, https://mhfh.com/tribute/details/31684/Joan-Parkinson/obituary.html
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joan's memory, directly to the Cancer Society of Canada Foundation or to the charity of one's choice.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 24, 2020
Condolences & Memories (3 entries)
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Miss you so much - it's like something has been taken away and I can't quite explain what it is - it's like a wall has been taken out of our house - makes everything different - yet it's hard to explain exactly the feeling. I see you everyday - I have great memories of your smile and how much you loved to laugh. Even during your illness, we could laugh during our phone calls. I am grateful Shirle and I were able to see you a few months ago. Despite the Covid warnings and concerns, I loved the big hug you gave me before we left that day... had no idea it would be the last hug. I guess we never know when we get our last hugs. You left a great legacy - ...regardless of the difficulties we face find something positive and deal with the difficulties without trying to share them with everyone ... find the goodness in everyone - it's there to be shared ...let the people around you know how important they are to you - then everyone feels good ...don't let illness detract you from the good things in life - enjoy the goodness every day even if it is a Werthers candy - Posted by: Brian Evans (brother) on: Oct 26, 2020
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Our condolences Jane to read about the passing of your mom, its always so hard to lose your love one; she was too young to leave this earth; with loving arms your dad was waiting for her. Bless you and family for the painful days ahead. - Posted by: Anna Basset and Richard Janczyk (friend) on: Oct 25, 2020
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I am so very sorry to hear of Joanie's passing......she was such a big part of my journey growing up She was indeed always smiling and enjoying life. Life is not always easy but she always found joy ❤️ Sharon - Posted by: Sharon (Cousin) on: Oct 24, 2020