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Joan Rae

September 28, 1913 - September 7, 2010

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our high-spirited sister, mother and grandma, Joan Rae. Joan passed away peacefully on September 7, 2010. She would have celebrated her 97th birthday on September 28. She was predeceased by her husband, Allen , in October 2006. Her bright-eyed smile will never be forgotten by her family: sister, Marge Keyes: daughters, Arlene Matkoski (Alex) and Catherine Macaulay; grandchildren, Bev Webber (Dan), Wayne Matkoski (Pam), Leslie Lasota (Raymond); great-granddaughters, Lindsay, Leah , Jenna, Rebecca and Kaitlyn.

Joan was born in Elie, Manitoba on September 28, 1913. She was the seventh child in a family of 13 children. She moved with her family to Squamish when she was seven. This was where she met Allen. They were married March 23, 1936. In May, 1942, they moved to Englewood, on Northern Vancouver Island. They resided on the North Island for 36 years. In 1978, they retired to Courtenay. Their years together, in the Comox Valley were happy for both of them. Her house was always open, whether it be for a quick visit or a stay. She loved company, and always commented on how she hated the quiet in her house after everyone left.

Grandma Rae, as she was known to many, was famous for her quick wit and friendly nature. She had a great sense of humour and loved to laugh. You could never enter her home without being offered something to eat, and although you may not have been hungry somehow she could convince you to eat.

Joan was never one to sit still for very long. She will be remembered for her endless amount of energy. She was always ready to go somewhere or busy doing something. It could have been anything from ironing (she ironed everything!), baking, making jam, canning, hanging out the clothes, walking or shopping. She also became famous with the folks that worked in the hospital of the Cumberland Lodge for how quickly she could move! She was like Houdini, escaping from her seat belt or hospital bed, at any chance she was given.

Joan treasured her family. She was forever the doting mother and grandmother. She was a constant worrier and always needed to know her family was safe. There was trouble to be had if you never checked in with her! Her grandchildren will always remember how she was full of stories and just plain fun to be with. You could be peeling vegetables and she made it enjoyable! She was always up for a game of cards, yahtzee or snakes and ladders.

Joan had many friends throughout her long life. Many of them being “Bingo Buddies”. If you knew Joan, you knew she loved her bingo!

We wish to thank all the people who cared for Joan in St. Joseph’s Hospital and Cumberland Lodge. You all really were a blessing. We will never forget your caring ways.

Honouring her wishes, no service will be held.



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