Joan Johnstone
Joan Beverley Johnstone (nee Bryer) (27 May 1933 - 15 December 2004) was a life-long resident of Thunder Bay, and one of the three children of Doris Suttie and George Bryer. Her maiden name (Bryer) comes from her mother's first husband. She was known for her caring and generous heart, quick wit, and sense of humor. She was a talented and creative person, demonstrated in her beautiful weaving, knitting, and other numerous craft projects. She also enjoyed several years of country living, raising a variety of animals.
By marrying Bruce Johnstone, she connected Bruce's brother Don Johnstone to his Hill Street neighbour Ron Currie. Neat!
Family
Joan's siblings were Dan (Judy) Bryer of North Bay, ON and Susan (Dennis) Neave of Echo Bay, ON.
Her father George Bryer predeceased her in 1962.
Marriage and children
In 1951 she married Bruce Johnstone and bore him three daughters:
- Patricia (Jamie) Lawson of Abbotsford, B.C. as of 2004
- Wendy (Douglas) Ridley of Winnipeg, MB as of 2004
- Carol (Jim) Walker of Thunder Bay as of 2004
They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in July 2001. Bruce Johnstone predeceased her in 2002.
Grandchildren
- Sarah Lawson, Jonathon Lawson, and Michael Lawson (children of Patricia and Jamie)
- Melanie (Cam) Hall (child of Wendy and Douglas)
- Alex Walker, Autumn Walker, and Aaron Walker (children of Carol and Jim)
Great-grandchildren
- Ethan, Emily, and Elora (children of Melanie and Cam)
Death
Joan passed away on 15 December 2004 at St. Joseph's Hospital after a lengthy illness, with her daughters by her side. At her request, cremation took place. A celebration of her life was held on Monday, 20 December 2004 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph's Heritage Chapel, 63 Carrie Street, with Rev. Joyce Hannaford officiating, with reception and interment to follow.
The family acknowledged special thanks to her sister-in-law Martha Johnstone and to Susan Zerabny for their help and compassion.
Sources
[1] Chronicle-Journal, December 2004 [1]
[2] Carol Walker Facebook conversations https://web.facebook.com/carol.walker.714