Mom was born on May 23, 1928 to Harold and Evelyn Saville of Hamilton. Mom is survived by her four children; Sandy Koteles (Jim), Brent (Gail), David (Kit Mooney) and Kim, who were the centre of her universe.
Jo’s infectious sunshine will be carried on by her 11 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Her grandchildren are Jim Koteles Jr., Bill Koteles (Pear), Beth Millar (Tim), Jennifer Tomas (Lakan), Jessica O’Connor, Ty, Tashina and Kiera Walker and Matt, Marcus and Mia. Her great grandchildren are Cherilyn Millar, Emily and Maddy Koteles, Riley O’Connor and Claire and Alice Tomas.
Mom lived a very full life. Mom was born and raised in Aldershot and then shared 48 years of happily married life with Norm Walker, the love of her life. They lived in Waterdown for many years prior to moving to Granby, Quebec for 10 years. Mom and Dad moved back to Ontario - Kitchener then Dundas. Their love of nature, water and cottage life led them to Bancroft and Lake Weslemkoon. They rented and then owned cottages on their beloved lake where they eventually built their retirement home. Family, friends and sunsets created lasting, loving memories. Mom moved into a retirement residence in Hamilton in 2017.
Mom's blanketing love warmed many generations of family members, but it touched many others that considered her a second mom. She immediately lit up any room she entered with her colorful and bubbly personality. Her warmth of spirit and heart also extended to the many dogs who were lucky to be loved by her over her lifetime.
Homemaker, artist, distinguished member of the order of cockeyed loons, and joke teller – Mom always created a masterful palette for people to feel welcome and comfortable in.
Mom was loved on the lake as well as by an extended family at her retirement residence, the “Court”. She had an impact on so many lives and there are many who will dearly miss her radiant smile and playful teasing.
Mom has had several hospitalizations over the last 4 years. This latest bout of cancer had her hospitalized and fighting for 46 days prior to her passing. In the end, Mom taught us all what resilience and perseverance look like because of her reluctance to stop fighting and her never quit mentality. Mom may be “out of this world”, but she was “our world” for so long. Rest peacefully and never stop teasing……we hope you are now having a rum and coke with daddy at the lake and swimming with the loons. Cheers.
Love you always and forever Mom.
A gathering for family and mom's close friends to celebrate her life will take place on, Tuesday, July 19th from 2-5 p.m. Friends are encouraged to leave online tributes or memories they may have of Jo here for her family.
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