Joanne Shirley Cartwright
May 29, 1926 – February 16, 2013
Joanne was blessed with a long and happy life. She was born and raised in Chilliwack where in high school she met the love of her life: Tom. After graduating as the top student, she studied at UBC and then in Seattle and became an orthoptic technician. She joined Tom in England, where he was stationed with the Royal Air Force. They married in London in 1950 and returned to Canada, where they settled down in Burnaby. In the 1970’s, Joanne returned to university, attending SFU to finish her degree, and became a teacher librarian, working in Surrey until her retirement in 1987. Tom and Joanne learned to ski when they were in their late 40s and remained dedicated skiiers until they were 82, often spending months at their condo at Big White. Tom and Joanne moved to Salt Spring Island full time after they retired. Joanne appreciated the view of the ocean from her place at the dining room table right until the end. Joanne was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother, a philanthropist, teacher, and world traveller. She enjoyed gardening, reading, sewing, and baking. Joanne and Tom loved art and supported the arts on Salt Spring. They volunteered at the library, supported many causes, especially environmental ones, and travelled the world. They were members of the Trail and Nature Club and Joanne was active with the University Women’s Club. Joanne was an extraordinary person. She was the most capable person we knew (along with Tom). She was smart, determined, practical, organized, and hard working. We will remember her generosity and kindness. Family came first for Joanne. She was very proud of her children and grandchildren. Joanne was predeceased by her parents Clifford and Mabel Ferguson. She is survived by her loving family: husband Thomas: children John (Judy), Jane (Alfred), Catherine (Desmond), and Robert: grandchildren Thomas, Patrick, Jacqueline, Caroline, Madeline, and Molly. There are so many people to thank for their kindness and devotion, especially Dr. Ron Reznick and Jean. Funeral services will be held 2:30 pm Saturday, March 2 at All Saints By-The-Sea, 110 Park Drive, Salt Spring Island, with reception following. An additional reception will be held at John and Judy’s house, 4366 Portland St., Burnaby, on Sunday March 3 at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Lady Minto Hospital Fundation, 135 Crofton Road, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 1T1, or the charity of your choice.