Thelma Joan Danielson

You left a legacy in even the smallest things

You gave so much of yourself

Loving others unselfishly and unconditionally.

You were a light, a beacon, a fire

Burning bright through the years

You put your burdens on the shelf

Giving your heart so freely and beautifully.

You brought laughter, learning, and joy

Into moments large and small

Your heart was your true wealth

A beautiful mother inside and out.

by Amy Finley

Thelma Joan “Jo” Danielson, of Nanaimo BC, passed away at home on November 2, 2022, with family by her side.

Jo was born on March 18, 1936, in Nanaimo to the late Frank and Thelma Cartwright. Being the youngest of three, Jo looked up to and loved her siblings, Lois Miller (Nanaimo) and the late Anne Thompson (Vancouver), very much. In 1953, Jo was a part of the first graduating class of Nanaimo District Secondary School. This was followed by teacher training in Victoria BC, at the Young Building, where she attended Normal School in 1954.

She married the late Oliver “Danny” Danielson in 1962. They lived in Quesnel for 3 years before relocating to Qualicum Beach BC for 14 years and finally settling in Nanaimo in 1979. In the 70s, Jo continued her education at the University of British Columbia with a focus on teaching. She worked as a teacher in several districts throughout her career before she retired from School District 68 in 1996.

In 1980, Jo started teaching in School District 68 as a music teacher where she traveled to many schools—from Seaview Elementary all the way to Davis Road Elementary. Her final teaching position was Grade 3 at North Cedar Elementary School where she continued her love of music by directing school musicals. Jo enjoyed music and had a passion for singing. Prior to having her own family, Jo sang at weddings and even recorded a song. She carried her love of singing to the Nanaimo Sweet Adeline’s Chorus in the 80s where she competed locally and nationally for over 30 years.

First and foremost, Jo was a dedicated mother and treasured every moment with her children. Before all else, she loved her role as Grandma. She had a vibrant, lighthearted personality and always made those around her laugh. Jo was immensely proud of her family, especially her grandchildren, and leaves behind nothing but beautiful memories from playing mini golf to watching sunsets at the beach. She was very non-judgmental when meeting new people which made it easy for her to make friends everywhere she went. Even as her health declined, she had a way of keeping everyone smiling with her amazing sense of humor. Her sister Lois, daughter Joanne, son Frank, and close friend Cindy will cherish those final belly laughs forever.

Jo is survived by her sister Lois Miller, two children, and their spouses: Frank and Petra Danielson (Vancouver), and Joanne and Kaz Tomiyama (Nanaimo). She is also survived by three grandchildren: Jayden Tomiyama, Nolen Tomiyama, and Dylan Danielson whom she loved so very much. She always treasured time with family, especially the Parksville vacations with the grandchildren and the recent full meal deal experience at Gotham’s steak house in Vancouver. Jo also touched the lives of many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. She had many great friends encompassing all generations and developed the endearing name “JoJo Ma” from her children’s friends. Jo loved playing cards, with her favorite game being poker. She truly enjoyed her time camping and teaching others to play her favorite card game as a way of staying connected to her grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Richard from the Woodgrove Save-on-More pharmacy, VIHA Home and Community Care staff, her palliative care nurse Leah, and Melissa King from Home Instead. Jo felt blessed to be in your safe, competent, and loving care. Jo also had a special place in her heart for her family doctor. The family is so grateful to Dr. Davina Kazanowski for the compassion and kindness showed. Thank you for your dedication to your work and your patients.

In lieu of a traditional memorial service, Jo has requested an informal gathering. The family will be hosting an Open House at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made in Jo’s name to the Canadian Diabetes Association, BC Cancer Society, or the Nanaimo Hospice.