Joanne McGrath

  • Joanne McGrath
  • Date of Passing: July 3, 2019
  • Born: July 13, 1935

Obituary

It is with great sadness and memories of joy that we announce the passing of Joanne McGrath on Wednesday, July 3, 2019.

Joanne will be cherished forever in the hearts of her husband Mark, son Joel (Lianne), daughter Jill (Martin) and son Dan (Rhonda); grandchildren Mathew, Dylan, Rickie and Kieran; sister Margaret (Don) Lueger, and many nieces and nephews.

Joanne was a loving wife, wonderful mother and great friend. She was predeceased by her parents, Frank and Kay Barrett, and sister Lois.

Born in Winnipeg and raised in Swan River, Joanne spent a happy childhood in rural Manitoba. She was an active woman who enjoyed curling, swimming, fishing and the outdoors.

Joanne and Mark met in Winnipeg in the mid-1950s and married in 1958. They raised three children together in St. Vital. She belonged to Christ the King Roman Catholic parish in Winnipeg, where she was active in the Catholic Women’s League and Christ our Saviour parish in Steinbach, MB. Joanne volunteered with Meals on Wheels and was active in the Elizabeth Fry Society. She worked at the Royal Bank and Toronto Dominion Bank in Winnipeg.

Curling was Joanne’s passion as a participant and spectator. As a member of the St. Vital and Heather curling clubs, she was a dedicated and friendly competitor. Later in life, Joanne and Mark competed at the state championship level in shuffleboard while spending many enjoyable winters at Araby Acres in Yuma, Arizona. She kept fit through a daily routine that included swimming, aquasize, gardening and walking. With Mark, she was a cribbage player at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre since moving to Steinbach.

The cottage at Ingolf, Ontario was big a part of Joanne’s life. Many summers were spent swimming, gardening, fishing, blueberry picking and paddle-boating while creating many friendships. She was a member of the Ingolf Campers’ Association and the Ingolf 39ers Club. Family life was a joy with Joanne. Many wonderful memories were made.

The family thanks Dr. Toews and caregivers at the Bethesda Regional Health Centre in Steinbach for their exceptional kindness and care. Thanks also to the CancerCare Manitoba team for its support.

Upon Joanne’s wishes, cremation has taken place.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

If friends so desire, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation or the Ingolf Campers’ Association.

Our family is very grateful for the comfort and support from family and friends during this difficult time. Life is precious. Every day is a gift.