JOYCE WINONA (PILKINGTON) POLEC

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JOYCE WINONA (PILKINGTON) POLEC October 25, 1922 - December 2, 2013 Joyce Winona (Pilkington) Polec was born October 25, 1922 to Merle and Jim Pilkington of Shawville, Quebec. Growing up in Quebec with her older brother Ivan and younger brother Mel, all three children became fluent in French even though their parents only spoke English. Most of her growing up years were spent in Aylmer, Quebec where she met her husband Bernie Polec. They were married January 25, 1941 when Joy was only 18 years old. Bernie was career RCAF. They lived in many wonderful places across Canada, Belgium and France. For many years, Joyce was a wonderful stay at home Mom but always loved retail sales. While in Camp Borden, Ontario, she became the assistant manager of a large Army grocery store and in Marville, France, she managed the lingerie department of the Air Force PX. Joy's French improved dramatically while living in France for three years. Joyce was a wonderful mother to her three children Nona (Nonnie) Hoffinger of Portland, Oregon, Douglas (wife Francoise) of London, Ontario and Gary Polec of Winnipeg. She was a very special grandmother to her grandchildren Glenn Hoffinger (wife Shannon) of Portland, Oregon, Debbie Polec of Fillmore, California, Lori (husband Aaron) Ozol, Sheri and Cathy Polec of Winnipeg; as well as to her great-grandson Chase Hoffinger. She was a great cook and indulged her family in many wonderful meals at home, at Lac du Bonnet, in Oregon, Arizona and many other fun places. She was an avid bridge player and loved bingo. Even in her 91st year, she could still beat her daughter and granddaughter at cards and win at bingo. After 59 years of marriage, her husband Bernie died in 2000. They were a devoted couple and Mom missed Dad for the rest of her life. Her proudest moments were with her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchild. They all knew how special they were to her. Joyce was a beautiful lady with flashing blue eyes. She had a great sense of humour and loved to tell jokes. She read the newspaper from cover to cover and also enjoyed the scandal magazines about movie stars and TV personalities. Joyce was a compassionate person. When her mother Merle Pilkington bought Pleasant Park Nursing Home in Ottawa, Joyce would return from Winnipeg to help her with the daily chores of caring for patients. She was very good with people and the residents looked forward to her visits. Joyce had a wonderful life. She was especially thankful for her family, her travel adventures and all the "angels" who have helped her during her convalescing especially following a stroke three years ago. She wants to thank the Golden West staff for all their kindnesses and the many caring friends who have stood by her in her later years. Her family are very proud of Joyce and thankful for having her to look up to. Rest in peace, Mom / Granny. We will love you forever. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2013 at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue at 2:00 p.m. For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit our website. www.chapellawn.ca 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 05, 2013