Jo-Anne Claire Thompson

Jo-Anne is survived by her husband Jim, children Scott and Jennifer (Angus), sisters Synandra (Ed), Glenda (Dave) and Kim (Larry); as well as nieces, nephews, and numerous in-laws. Jo is also survived by very special loving and devoted friends Al and Heather. Jo was predeceased by her parents Clarence and Iris Lechner.

Jo-Anne grew up in Fort Garry and was an avid and exceptional gymnast. She attended schools in Fort Garry, graduating from Vincent Massey Collegiate. She began her working career at Crown Zellerbach; when Scott was born, she became a stay-at-home mom and a Tops and Trends party consultant. Jo-Anne returned to work fulltime in 1998 at the University of Manitoba where she was employed at the time of her passing.

Jo-Anne loved traveling to Punta Cana, where she and Jim visited together for over 20 years. Jo-Anne and Jim also cruised around the world and took in great experiences, especially in Alaska where she and Jim helicoptered to and hiked on a glacier. With a flair for style and fashion, Jo-Anne also cherished her regular solo shopping trips to Chicago. Jo-Anne had the trip of a lifetime this past winter when her family and closest friends spent an extended period in South Africa for her daughter Jennifer’s wedding.

Most of all, she loved and cared for her family. Jo-Anne and Jim were married in 1979, and she was most proud of her children, Scott and Jennifer, and the fine adults they have become.

We are devastated at the sudden loss of Jo-Anne. At 59, she left us far too young and unexpectedly. We will miss her dearly.

Family and friends are invited to a service on Friday, September 28 at 10:00 am at Thomson “In the Park” Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Boulevard, with refreshments including Jo-Anne’s favourite (carrot cake) to follow.

The family wishes to thank the Winnipeg Police Service for their professionalism and the staff at St. Boniface hospital for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to WPG Dress Collective, or a charity of your choice. https://wpgdresscollective.com/jo-anne-claire-thompson/