Joan Eleanor McCrea

Peacefully with her children by her side, on Wednesday December 13, 2017, Joan McCrea passed away at the age of 88. Family was very important to Joan. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, Auntie Joan and a good friend.

She is survived by her sons Ed (Judy) and Ken (Charlene), her six grandchildren Scott (Denise), Brent (Sarah), Melissa (Mike), Allison (Matt), Tracy (Mike) and Kyle, and her 10 (soon to be 11) great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Donald.

Born on May 18, 1929 to Ernie and Iza Penston, she grew up with her family in Elm Creek, Manitoba. She attended Success Business College in Winnipeg and then started her working career. Joan met Don McCrea and they were married in 1952, enjoying 30 years of happy marriage until Don’s early passing in 1982. In their early years of marriage, she and Don focused on raising their sons. She later enjoyed many years working as a school secretary in the Fort Garry School Division. In spite of losing Don at an early age, Joan remained an active and happy person with the involvement and support of her family and valued friends.

Joan was proud of her Elm Creek roots initiating many life-long friendships there and always enjoyed returning for community events and reunions.

Family was first with Joan. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were the joy of her life. Some are in Winnipeg and some are in Calgary. She kept track of all their activities and had nicknames for all of her grandchildren. She loved to see them and talk to them on the phone.

Joan was also close with both of her brothers and sisters-in-law, Jim & Leone and Del & Irene. Even after their passing in recent years, she continued to enjoy and appreciate a close relationship with all the nieces and nephews.

Besides being a great baker and loving to read, Joan enjoyed visits to various casinos including many bus trips to Warroad although she never hit it big playing the penny slots. She wasn’t an active curler, but loved watching the sport on TV and rarely missed a shot from her living room.

Cremation has taken place and pursuant to her wishes, a private family burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to a charity of your choice.