Joan McBride

JOAN ELIZABETH FAIRLIE MCBRIDE (nee PARK) October 7, 1925 – October 10, 2013

No day so quickly passes that I don’t think some of you

It may be once, or often but the whole thought of you rings true

And oft I pray in silence

Asking God to keep to free

From all life’s ills and sorrows

And to let you think of me

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved, wife, mother, Gramma and Great-Gramma. Joan faced her battle with cancer as she did every challenge in her life, with great courage, dignity and strength, defying all the odds at every turn. She is survived and will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 64 years, Pidge, sons Jim (Debbie) and Michael (Jane), daughters Deborah and Liz (Glen), adored grandchildren Adam (Janet), Thomas, Chris (Dani), Andrew, Jeff (Lauren), Tim (Liz), Heather, Jamie (Greg), Sarah, Tamsin, Morgan, Hayley, Brooklyn and great-granddaughter Makena. Joan is also survived by her brother Kerry (Ness) and countless nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Joan was born on October 7, 1925 in Vancouver, BC. She attended Magee high school and then UBC where her lifelong love affair with Pidge flourished. They were married on July 20, 1949. Their almost three quarter of a century courtship found them spending many years in both Alberta and BC. Joan was the consummate partner, entertainer, bridge player, homemaker and devoted friend. Her many talents, elegance and warm hospitable nature touched all who knew her. She had a profound and lasting impact on every one who was privileged enough to have her as even a small part of their lives. While she was a wonderful mother and role model…she also excelled at being a grandmother. “Gramma” was an inspiration and guiding force for all her dear grandchildren and left them all with a foundation of strength, wisdom and encouragement. She was greatly loved and will be missed more than words can say. The family would like to thank Joan’s many wonderful caregivers, nurses and physicians for their kind and loving care and support throughout her courageous battle with cancer. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Richmond Hospital Foundation, www.richmondhospitalfoundation.com. A Celebration of Joan’s Life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, November 9th, 2013 at Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church, 2733 West 41st Ave. Vancouver, BC, with Reverend Steve Filyk, officiating.