Obituary of Joan-Mary-Louise Kirby

KIRBY, Joan Mary Louise (nee Agnew) 1933 - 2008 - Surrounded by love, Mom passed away on November 22, 2008 in Ajax, Ontario, following a lengthy illness. She was predeceased by her husband, L.Col. E. J. (Rip) Kirby (Retired) who, as an ordained deacon, was head of the Chaplaincy at St. Mary's General Hospital, Kitchener until his death on April 30, 1995. She is survived by her children Cathy (Dan) of Regina, SK, Chris (Shawna) of Comox, BC, Jon of Vancouver, BC, and Angela (John), grandchildren Kevin, David, Mallory, Caroline, Lucas, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Joan was born in Toronto, graduated from St. Joseph High School and attended the Ontario College of Art. She married in 1954. As an Air Force wife, she lived in Winnipeg, Toronto, Metz, France, Baden, Germany, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Bagotville, Quebec, Dana, Saskatchewan, Ottawa, Ontario, and in Winnipeg where she worked at the Health Science Centre. She moved to Kitchener, Ontario where she pursued numerous hobbies and volunteer endeavours. A faith-filled person, Joan was motivated by her convictions. She was also an activist, feminist, and 'theologian' who challenged the status quo of conventional thinking. She enjoyed sewing, writing, art and book clubs. She was known for her infectious laughter, humour, good conversation and love of people. Mom will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by her loving family and friends at a celebration of her life. The family will receive friends at McEACHNIE FUNERAL HOME, 28 Old Kingston Road, Ajax, 905-428-8488 on Tuesday, November 25, 2008 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. A Funeral Mass will follow at St. Bernadette's Catholic Church (at Harwood Rd. and Bayly St., Ajax) at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society. A Book of Condolences may be signed at www.mceachnie-funeral.ca Godspeed, Mom.