My heart is broken to learn that Joanne has passed over to the Other Side. She was a treasure of a person, a close friend, who I have known for close to 20 years.
I first met her when she was a manager at one of my big corporate clients. I had an expense account for taking important clients out for lunch, and Joanne was my favourite work-place people. We became personal friends and never lost touch through the progression of our lives.
I first became aware of Joanne's health challenges when she gifted me with her ticket to a corporate sponsored Stampede private rock show at Fort Calgary. The Tragically Hip were the headline band. She knew I was a big fan of The Hip.
I was so excited to get to go, and wanted to go with her, but she shared that her health had been declining so she did not think she could manage to be on her feet at a crowded event all afternoon.
Even with her increasing health challenges, Joanne made a point to get out and about socially, her strength and motivation was remarkable.
For many years I was part of a local rock band. Joanne came out to so many of our gigs to support us.
And when my daughter and I launched The Potion, our Natural Skin Care brand, Joanne was our first devoted customer. She came out to our Launch party, and to our many Market events, all over Calgary.
I believe that Joanne was the most amazing person, a humble example for others of overcoming challenges, and living life to the fullest.
I am so glad that I visited her at her mom's just a few weeks ago. I will remember Joanne all the rest of my own life.
Never forgotten, forever missed. Always loved.
