JOYCE LUCILLE HAIP

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

JOYCE LUCILLE HAIP

(HYSCHUK)

(Gumpy Grams)

January 24, 1942 - July 16, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Joyce, at the age of 83 in Calgary.

Joyce leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories for her family: her brother, Laurence of Toronto; her cousins Carol and Sharon; her daughter Kirsten (Brian) and her grandchildren Brian James (Alex) and Madison (Riley).

Born and raised in Winnipeg, Joyce graduated from St. John’s High School before setting out for Toronto in search of adventure. Her journey eventually led her back to Winnipeg, where she married Jim. Though their paths diverged, Joyce and Jim remained good friends throughout their lives, even residing in the same seniors’ residence, Lion’s Place, during their retirement years.

Joyce dedicated much of her professional life to the CBC in Winnipeg, working in the film and 24-Hour News Department. There, she formed lifelong friendships with colleagues Lindy, Hope, Liz, Gwen, Frankie and Jona. Her curiosity and love of learning led her to complete a Bachelor of Arts degree in Classical Art and Architecture from the University of Winnipeg in 1988, an accomplishment she achieved while working full-time and raising her daughter. She later traveled solo to Greece and Turkey to experience firsthand the history she so loved.

As a single mother, Joyce poured her energy into creating a warm and welcoming home. She purchased and renovated a character house in Fort Rouge, lovingly restoring it to its original beauty. It became a place where family and friends gathered, drawn by her remarkable cooking and her gift for hospitality.

After retiring from the CBC in 1997, Joyce embraced a life full of activity and community. She was a dedicated lap swimmer at the Sherbrook Pool, a quick-footed walker with her ladies’ group, and an enthusiastic supporter of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet alongside her dear friend and fellow CBC alum, Ted. She also gave her time as a volunteer at Quagga and the Nearly New Thrift Shop.

Joyce found joy in simple pleasures: nurturing plants in the beloved greenhouse at Lion’s Place, savouring the scent of lavender, enjoying Kerr’s Scotch Mints, immersing herself in Ken Burns documentaries with the smooth narration of Peter Coyote, listening to the voice and fiddle of Alison Krauss, and wearing “good bling”. In 2021, with characteristic bravery, Joyce a month short of her 80th birthday moved to Calgary to be closer to her family. There, she delighted in outings to the Leighton Art Centre, Theatre Calgary, and in celebrating milestones such as her grandchildren’s university convocations. She was happiest in the middle of family “shenanigans,” where her wit and warmth always shone.

Even in her final year at Mayfair Care Centre, Joyce’s warmth and kindness naturally drew people to her. She formed cherished bonds, especially with Brenda, and continued to touch lives with her openness and grace. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to extended family members, whose support was instrumental before her move to Calgary, as well as to her family doctor, Dr. J.P. Leung, and Naomi, RN, for their compassionate and attentive care.

Joyce lived with generosity, resilience, and an enduring love of life. Her family will remember her not only for her accomplishments, but for her unwavering devotion, her humor, and her gentle presence. She leaves us with her own guiding words:

“Buy the shoes, eat the cake, don’t skip dessert, and always enjoy the sunshine.”

Tribute Link: www.evanjstrong.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 13, 2025