It is with great sadness that the family of Joan Alma Ames (nee McLaughlin) announces her sudden passing on Saturday, July 25, 2020 at Wild Rose Manor in Grande Prairie, AB, at the age of 92 years.

Joan was born May 26, 1928 in Grenfell, SK, and grew up in Bezanson, AB. She married and raised her family there on the farm, until she and her husband Russell sold and moved to Grande Prairie in 1974.

Joan was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her family was all-important and her well-tended home a place of comfort and countless wonderful meals. She was a wonderful baker, her homemade bread, squares and especially pies, were mouth-watering to anyone that got to enjoy them. Many loaves of freshly baked bread or cinnamon buns were delivered to her grandchildren over the years, not to mention the amazing potato salad that the family is still trying to perfect in her honor! Joan also crocheted hundreds of beautiful afghans over the years, which family and friends proudly display in her honour.

In their retirement, Joan and Russell enjoyed golfing and travelling, especially their six-week drive across Canada, visiting family along the way. Joan and Russell loved to dance and won several medals over the years at various Provincial Seniors Games. Joan was an avid walker, walking daily for several years.

Her marriage of 67 years was blessed with two children, five grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Son Danny (Donna) and their family: granddaughter Holly (Brady Kyle) and great-grandchildren Tristan and Quinn; granddaughter Jennifer (Garrett Larson/deceased) and great-grandchildren Cohan, Chloe and Lily. Daughter Terry (Roland LaCroix), and their family: granddaughter Tammy (Wayne Maskell) and great-grandchildren Josie and Brinley; grandson Darcy (Shelley) LaCroix and great-grandchildren Naomi, Reid, Trey and Alexa; granddaughter Renee (Darryl Gagnon) and great-grandchildren Kalyssa and Braeden. Joan is also survived by sister Jean Kimble; sisters in-law: Edith, Fern (Ron), and Ruby; brother in-law Allan; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Joan was predeceased by her husband Russell; parents Ira and Nellie McLaughlin; parents in­ law Fred and Edna Ames; sister Helen Redwood; brothers: Neil, Elmer and Earl: as well as many sisters in-law and brothers in-law.

Due to Covid19, there will be no memorial service. A private family burial of ashes will take place later in August 2020.

Memorial donations may be made to the Grande Spirit Foundation (9505 102 Ave., Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 7G9).

The family wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Wild Rose Manor for their amazing care for Joan during the past five years. In particular, the care shown during the Covid19 pandemic has been commendable, and certainly, at times, has gone above and beyond the call of duty. Thank you so very much!

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.oliversfuneralhome.com

• Date : 2020-07-24
• Location : Grande Prairie, Alberta

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