Joanne Marie (Jo) Varey

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Joanne Marie (Jo) Varey

(née ANDRUSHKO)

March 17, 1959 – January 31, 2026

With profound sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joanne Marie "Jo" Varey on January 31, 2026, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, at the age of 66.

She leaves behind her beloved husband of 42 years, Michael; her children Kristin (Matt), Kayla (Brad), and Erik (Raquel); and her cherished grandchildren Olive, Lincoln, Bentley and Sophie. She is also survived by her sisters Cindy (Greg), Lori (Steve), Debbie, and brother Greg (Lauren), along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Born on St. Patrick’s Day in Winnipeg, Joanne grew up in Transcona, raised by her loving parents William and Marie Andrushko. From a young age, she was known for her fearless spirit, vibrant personality, and ability to light up any room. Joanne’s true passion was caring for others. Inspired by helping her beloved Grandma Mary, she became a registered nurse and devoted her life to compassionate service. She spent many years in Geriatrics at St. Boniface Hospital and was most recently employed with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. She often said she would retire only when she no longer loved her job— and she never did. Her kindness, humor, and unwavering patience made her deeply admired by patients and colleagues alike. At 19, Joanne met the love of her life, Michael. They married on November 5, 1983, and built a life filled with laughter and adventure. Together they raised Kristin (1986), Kayla (1988), and Erik (1992), creating a lively and loving home. Joanne devoted herself to her children and later her grandchildren, proudly cheering them on in every competitive game and pursuit. She loved camping, the outdoors, and especially sunshine. She and Mike enjoyed traveling to warm destinations and creating treasured family memories at Disney World, Banff, and on countless camping trips. Becoming Grandma was one of her greatest joys. She adored her grandchildren and made each of them feel uniquely special. Joanne embraced life boldly and unapologetically. She was strong, generous, and had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel deeply loved. Her legacy of warmth, laughter, and unwavering devotion will live on in all who knew her.

She was predeceased by her parents, William and Marie Andrushko, and her brother-in-law Wayne Zajac. A special thank you to Sobering Funeral Chapel and to our Uncle Greg, who treated us with such kindness and grace during this difficult time.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 20, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Gates on Roblin, 6945 Roblin Boulevard. We will honor Joanne the way she would have wanted — with stories, memories, and music.

Rest easy, Jo, Mom.

You were truly one of a kind. 

Have I told you lately that I love you? Oh yes, I do. Oh, yes, I do.

SOBERING FUNERAL CHAPEL

& CREMATORIUM, Beausejour

(204) 268-3510 or

MB Toll Free 1-877-776-2220

Tributes to: www.soberingfuneralchapel.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 14, 2026