Condolences
What a treasure Joan was to so many new teachers, myself among them! My world was was made richer indeed by her presence and she will always hold a place of honour in my heart. I am a proud owner of her book and visit it often. May she Rest In Peace.
I met Joan my very first year in Calgary in 1969. My principal told me that I would have to teach two grades of Art……which incidentally I didn’t have a clue about……never ever had an Art class myself in all my school years. So I signed up for her Art Inservices. She was my lifesaver.
She always had a smile for everyone and I just loved her little laugh.
Our system was indeed fortunate to have her and she certainly left her mark on our Fine Arts department …..all positive.
May she rest in peace.
Joan was a great support for me during my first decade of teaching with Calgary Catholic. 40 years later, I still remember her as being so grounded and logical, but with the soul of an artist. On a particularly rough day for me, she told me about crying in her Cornflakes before heading to work at an inner school in New York, where they had to sit on lumber outside while the school was under repairs. We both laughed and I always think of her when I eat Cornflakes! God Bless you on your journey Joan!
Holly Clifford, Music director, Calgary Catholic (retired!).
Joan, you meant the world to me. In 1992 we had just wrapped up our EQI committee meetings (between art & math) for Ab. Ed. Curriculum development. I was very nervous to share my news that I’d be leaving BCHS & moving to the USA. You paused, giving me the most amazing smile and with a twinkle in your eye, held my hands and stated, “Cindy life is a wonderful journey through windows and doors, so many pathways, so much to explore… go enjoy everything there is to see and celebrate this with your family… ” Joan I know that you are soaring now with your wings — I hope your dear family finds solace in your paintings and your words. Indeed it is quite the legacy you have left behind. So many lives you have touched. I will always cherish my memories of working with you so closely — your, compassion and resilience was empowering. I cherished our talks: you made me a better teacher, artist and friend - miss you Joan.
Cynthia Thachek, BEd, MFA (St Mathew’s & Bishop Carroll H.S.)
I was very saddened to hear of Joan’s passing, but considered myself fortunate to have worked with her at the beginning of my career with the Calgary Catholic School District. It was 1973 and as a new graduate from St. F.X. University, I was hired “sight unseen”. I recall receiving a letter from Joan asking me to write about my philosophy of music education and my training. I arrived in September to learn that I had been assigned to the Fine Arts Centre where I worked with an amazing team of music, art and drama specialists under Joan’s supervision. From the beginning I was struck by her passion, kindness, and her total trust in me. During those early years of my career I learned so much from her, and she became a true mentor with unwavering support.
After moving back to Nova Scotia I kept in touch with Joan, and throughout my career I continued to be inspired by her. In 1989 I invited her to Cape Breton to be a key-note speaker at an arts education conference that I was hosting, and in true form, she was a great success. After many requests from delegates to have a copy of her speech, Joan later wrote to tell me that there no notes, but rather those words were simply “inspired utterances”. Such was Joan... a brilliant mind who was always warm, generous and kind.
To Joan’s family and her many friends, I extend my sincere condolences. We have lost a true advocate for arts education but I know her legacy will live on and continue to inspire. Thank you for being there, Joan. We will always remember you.
Eric Favaro
Dearest Joan...it was back in 1971 when we first spoke and I remember it so well like it was yesterday. You were in Calgary and I was in Victoria. In fifteen minutes you made up your mind and offered me a position with CSSD. Based upon your kind Maritime voice, your obvious sense of humour and dauntless enthusiasm for the arts I couldn't wait to meet you and gladly accepted. Upon asking about the nature of the position you said you didn't know yet, but you would find something. You did. “Yes, indeed” as you so often would say.
Your determination to do what has to be done was but one of your strengths and qualities which made you such a person to be admired. Your calming influence on those around you, your intellectual rationale supporting the value of the arts in education and the sensitive skill you showed as a very special artist made you so lovable. In times of stress and challenge you were courageous and consistent in your caring not only for Nan and Denise but for anyone who needed your help. Affectionately known as the “Godmother” or “JEM” or “Joan of Arts” your strength and resilience became a model for the Fine Arts Team, the Fine Arts Centre, the District and any teacher needing help promoting the arts with their class. Over fifty years, I was so honored not only to work with you but just to be in your presence. Thank you for everything, with all of my heart. Peter
Deepest condolences to Joan's family. I was priviliged to work with Joan as a Fine Arts member for many years. Her benevolent wisdom, caring ways, and friendship will always be treasured by me. Thankyou Joan, Rest In Peace
My thoughts and prayers are extended to the family and many friends of Dr Joan MacLeod. The world is a poorer place now; I feel blessed that our paths crossed when I first began working for Calgary Catholic and continued for mean years. Rest In Peace, Joan, your work and your memory live pn in the hearts of many.
Linda Manwarren
Dr Joan Macleod was such a kind and thoughtful leader of the Fine Arts for CSSD when I first started teaching art. I still remember her cheerful voice giving us inspiration at in-services and conferences. I became a better teacher having known her. Thank you Joan.
When I first became a music teacher in Calgary Catholic, Dr. Joan MacLeod was our Fine Arts Supervisor. She was so welcoming and kind when I attended events that the Fine Arts put on. Joan always had a smile on her face and was so encouraging. She will be deeply missed.
My condolences go out to all the family members.
For thirty years it was my privilege to teach drama and direct theatrical productions in the theatre in Our Lady of the Rockies High School named after the incomparable Dr. Joan Macleod. On the occasion of the naming of the theatre Dr. Macleod presented a painted inspirational image of a child moving toward a light in recognition of the joy found in the right path; of being on one’s way. No one understood the importance of a fine arts education than Dr. Macleod. As the supervisor of Calgary Catholic fine arts teachers, Dr. Macleod ensured that we were supported and allowed to flourish so in turn we could open spaces for thousands of creative youth to thrive. This is the legacy of Dr. Joan Macleod.
I am saddened to hear that Joan has passed away. The world has lost a wonderful, gentle , creative, and talented woman who dedicated much of her life promoting and fostering the growth and love of various art forms in education. Through her passion for the arts and her leadership, Joan fashioned a rich legacy for the Fine Arts Programs at Calgary Catholic. My sincere condolences and prayers go out to Joan's family. May you find peace and comfort in each other and the stories you share during this difficult time.
My sincere condolences to Joan’s family. Joan was my boss when she was Supervisor of Fine Arts at the Calgary Catholic School District. She was one of the smartest, wisest and articulate people I have ever known with leadership skills that were second to none. She will definitely be missed but sweet fond memories will keep her spirit alive.
The day we moved in next to Joan she appeared in my door to ask if we had kids or dogs, no to both was the answer. Lots of great chats and visits ensued. So many laughs. We still have our “Worlds Best Neighbour” t-shirts she made. A woman ahead of her time. She was a joy to know. We were happy to be a part of her tribe. Love Cheryl and Graham.
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