JOAN BELISLE

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JOAN BELISLE Our family would like to announce the passing of our beloved mother, Joan Belisle, who joined her parents, dear sister, and the love of her life, our father Phil, on July 3, 2015. To join her hereafter, remain her sister Marion; her sons, Blaine (Lisa, Breanna and Brooke) and Boyd (Mai, Liam and Cian). We will forever remember the courageous, beautiful and determined woman who never backed away from any struggle in life, whether it be her final bout with cancer, a heart attack, or a broken hip. Joan was an amazing mother and wife, achieving everything she wanted in life, most important of which was sharing her time with her two sons' families, her husband Phil and beloved shitzu Miko. Blaine and Boyd are grateful both mom and dad were present at their weddings. Joan enjoyed being a part of her four grandchildren's lives, witnessing Liam and Breanna graduate from high school. She also loved to watch Cian play soccer when she visited Calgary on numerous occasions. We will also never forget the memories of Brooke who quizzed her on world capitals during Easter dinner. Mom always reminded us of two things: "Never lose your sense of humour" and "Life is for the living". In her last days, mom showed everyone how important these two things were when a good friend brought her down to the hospital gift shop, and together they tried on hats. Joan waved at people passing by, and the two friends smiled as mom finally settled on a bright pink fedora. As the days passed by, the many nurses in her ward would comment how beautiful she looked and mom's eyes would light up, and, for a second, we all felt whole again. As a young child, mom's family made hats, and we are happy to know the last hat she wore brought her much joy. Mom had a gift for listening to others and made everyone feel at home. Mom said not long before her death that she lived a good life, one with no regrets, and we couldn't agree more. We are all so proud of her for the life she lived and the example she gave. Joan was an avid shopper, bowler and bingo player. She would never miss a Bomber game on t.v. and loved to spend time with her family, always being the first to show up at any social gathering with a twinkle in her eye, a smile from ear to ear, and a classic pep in her step. Joan and her sister, Jan (who passed just last summer), were inseparable in life, and were quite the dynamic duo wherever they went. Whether it was a good deal at Sears, found in the local flyer, or going out for a nice lunch with friends. They complimented each other in every way, so it brings us further peace knowing they will now be united forever. Joan was very fortunate to have the unconditional friendship of her longtime friends Jackie, Allen, Shirley and husband Ron. Joan will be remembered by many nieces and nephews, and we wish to sincerely thank our cousin Marcy who did so much for mom in her last year. Blaine, his wife, Lisa, and daughters, took great care of mom in her final months and days. Likewise, though from Calgary, mom was equally loved by Boyd, his wife Mai, and their two sons. Mom will live forever in our hearts, and we are comforted by knowing we will all one day soon be together again, reunited in the love we all shared on earth. The family memorial dinner will be held at a later date with invitations forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, the family would ask you to make a donation to the charity of your choice. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 11, 2015