Obituary of Joan (Joanie) Diane PARKINSON (nee Evans)

December 20, 1941 – Winnipeg, Manitoba
October 15, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

Joan Parkinson of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 15, 2020 at the age of 78 years with her family by her side. 

Although Joan was hospitalized for prolonged periods of time, her positive attitude never wavered as she took her health challenges in stride.  She squeezed the goodness out of life in such a way that many never knew of her difficulties.  She was a true warrior! Regardless of where Joanie was or who she was with, everyone loved having her around and was a joy to be with.  She had a constant smile for everyone and was always interested in what you had to say.  Whenever the opportunity arose, she would sing and dance, particularly to those ‘good ole rock ‘n roll’ songs. Joanie was born and raised in Winnipeg, MB. She lived a full life before moving to Alberta in the 80’s. Her career included a significant role with the Jaycee/Jaycette club in Winnipeg before heading west to Edmonton where she managed a ladies fashion store before moving to Calgary to continue the role as Manager.  Looking for a change, she worked for Rexall Drug store in Douglasglen as a postal clerk for more than nine years before retiring to dance to her own tune and travel.

Joanie will be forever remembered by her children, Debbie (Dan) and Kevin (Claudia) all of Edmonton, AB; two grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, her siblings, Gaile (Doug) of Spruce Grove, AB and Brian (Shirle) of Winnipeg, MB; her beloved constant travel companion and long-time friend RJ of Calgary, AB, as well as several nieces, nephews, relatives and friends throughout AB, BC, and MB. Joanie was predeceased by her parents, Alec and Lillian Evans, husband Dion Parkinson and her brother Robert.

Joanie has been cremated and a Private Celebration only will take place due to Covid-19 restrictions. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Joanie’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Canadian Cancer Society, 200 – 325 Manning Rd. N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 2P5 Telephone: (403) 205-3966, email donorservices@cancer.ab.ca.  

We are grateful for staff at Unit 68 at South Health Campus in Calgary, AB.  We could not visit due to the pandemic, but staff went above and beyond to provide reassurance, compassion, and a listening ear to Joan.  For two years Joan became a favorite of nurse Rebecca (NP) who bought her books and candy for comfort.  We are humbly grateful for all you did for our mother, sister, grandmother, and auntie.

In living memory of Joan Parkinson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.