October 30, 2023
In loving memory ~
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of our beloved, sweet, caring, funny, independent, feisty mother, mother-in-law, aunt, and friend on October 30th. She passed peacefully at home surrounded by her loving daughter and son-in-law.
She now joins her late husband Norman Blais, son Wayne Blais, brother Frank Frost and sister-in-law Wilma Frost along with her parents Edwin (Ted) George Frost and Gladys Emily Frost (Cockett).
She will be sadly missed by her daughter Dawn (Brian) and nephews Randy Frost (Linda), Russell Pym (Lorie) and Tom Frost (Karen).
Joan was born in Winnipeg in 1925 where she was an award-winning speed skater. She came to BC when she married and lived first in Victoria and then in Castlegar where she lived for 59 years. Her last year was spent living with her daughter Dawn in Victoria.
Joan was a devoted mother and gardener and she worked tirelessly to support her community. She loved birds and flowers...sitting outside she would feed the chickadees peanuts from her hands which brought her joy.
She volunteered at the library for many years, was a hospice volunteer, was active in the Lutheran church and was involved in the Legion, especially the Ladies Auxiliary. She sat on the hospital board and was always available to support a good cause.
Joan met hardships in her life with dignity and moved on. She always said, "It is what it is". She was reluctant to accept praise, thinking that her actions were what anyone would do. Even as her physical abilities were waning, she was always offering to help.
And she had a great sense of humour quietly letting go zingers that had everyone in stitches. There was also a feisty side to her and was never cautious about speaking up if she didn't want to do something or held a certain belief.
Special thanks to the Home Medical Team, especially Dr. Priya Rosenberg who provided sensitive and caring support in her last year.
We owe Joan a debt of gratitude for showing us what is most important in life: the love of family and friends and the power of beauty and small kindnesses. She will be so missed by her family who will keep her in their thoughts with love always.
There will be no service, but condolences are welcomed at www.firstmemorialsaanich.com
In lieu of flowers donations can be made tothe Castlegar Hospice Society or the Alzheimer's Society of Canada.