Joan Westover

Joan was born on March 22, 1936, in Fort Frances, Ontario, to Marshall and Gladys Bolton. She grew up in Fort Frances and, after completing high school, attended Success Business College in Winnipeg. She returned to Fort Frances to work for the Mill Manager.

Joan was united in marriage to Charles Lee Westover, on September 28,1957. They were happily married for 51 years and enjoyed doing everything together. She continued to work at the mill until 1966, when her 3rd child was born.

Joan and Chuck spent a great deal of time up the lake on Woodchuck Island, which her father acquired in 1953. She enjoyed helping build the cabins, fishing, swimming, water-skiing and taking care of the family. Many cherished memories were created with family and friends gathering at the cabin over the years. Many arrived as strangers, but left as friends.

Joan was always very active in the community: volunteering with the Hospital Auxiliary, Rainycrest Auxiliary, Sorority, and St. John’s Anglican Church, of which she was an active member all her life. Joan was known for doing whatever was necessary to help out, no matter the job.

Mom had a special relationship with Rhoda Dickson who was helpful until the end. Dr. Bob was also a great friend to her and was there when we could not be.

She enjoyed many activities and regularly walked, joined yoga, played cards and always had coffee ready in the mornings, often joined by Dale and Scott by 7 AM. Her card playing was competitive and it was an accomplishment to beat her. She enjoyed life and participated actively until she turned 85. She also loved a good puzzle and always had a crossword on the go.

Joan was a confidante, advisor, supporter and biggest fan of her kids and grandchildren. She liked nothing more than being part of their lives. She babysat, did pickup from school, watched soccer, and spent many hours watching hockey and travelling to out-of town tournaments. She could always be counted on to have banana bread or many other treats ready. She was always game for a trip to Oakville to visit Mike’s family.

Joan will be greatly missed by her children Dale, Nancy (Kevin), Scott (Candy) and Michael (Lynn); grandchildren Kenny, Charlee, Byron, Samantha, Chad, Dani, Christopher, Nicholas and Matthew; sisters Donna Wasykowski, Marlene Lowry and Shirley Gaylord (Barry); as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Mom, we could never have enough time with you. We will treasure all the years and memories and count ourselves so fortunate that you and dad were our parents. So very blessed.

Joan was predeceased by husband Chuck, her parents Marshall and Gladys, in-laws Don and Grace Westover, brother-in-laws Bill Wasykowski and Bob Lowry, and Chuck’s family, Evelyn & Lloyd Perry, Jean & Don Harris and Russell Westover.

Due to COVID 19 Restrictions the memorial service planned for December 29 is being postponed.

The honorary pallbearers will be her grandsons: Kenny, Christopher, Byron, Chad, Nicholas, and Matthew.

If friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to St. John’s Anglican Church in Fort Frances, or to the Cancer Society, in her honour.