Joanne (Jo) Stewart

Joanne (Jo) Barbara Stewart passed away peacefully on June 1, 2017 at the Fort St John Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

Jo is survived by her children, Andy (Irene) from Cobble Hill, BC; Dave (Muriel) from Calgary, AB; Wendy (Russ) Reynolds from Canmore, AB and Cam from Taylor, BC; grandchildren: Brad (Ly), Nadine (Mike), Blaine (Nikki), Laura (Jeremy), Corrie, Suzanne, Breanne, Jamie and Toni and great grandchildren Kylan, Everett, Calix, and Pierce. Jo was predeceased in 2012 by Ian, her husband of 61 years.

Mom was born an only child in Toronto, ON on March 15, 1930 to parents Charles (Bud) and Dorothy Hopkins. She spent her childhood years in the Oakville - Cooksville area. During the war years Mom's family moved to Saskatoon, where Bud was stationed as a military training officer. In 1946, her parents bought and operated the only hotel in Meota, SK, where her family resided for two & a half years. During that brief time, she met the love of her life, Ian Stewart and they married in 1950. Mom and Dad lived in Vermilion, Olds, & Wetaskiwin, AB before moving the family to Fort St John in 1958.

In 1963 the family moved for brief stints in Calgary, AB and Burstall, SK, returning to Fort St. John in 1966. Mom and Dad would call this home for the remainder of their lives.

Over the years in Fort St John, Mom was very involved with the Anglican Church, her Beta Sigma Phi sorority, preparing Christmas hampers for the needy, exercising her 'Top Kop" rank at TOPS, as well as nurturing her four children throughout their school years & sports activities. After raising her family, Jo worked for the Ministry

of Health providing hearing tests for district school children

for 13 years before retiring.

In 1967, Mom and Dad purchased a waterfront lot on Charlie Lake where they built a cottage. This property became the focal point of the Stewart "clan's" recreation activities for 50 years.

Mom was happiest at her cottage surrounded by family and her many dear friends. She loved this little piece of paradise which is now enjoyed by her grand & great grandchildren.

Throughout the years Mom was the family matriarch who kept us all in touch. Jo remained true to her inner faith and steadfast in her personal convictions. She strived always to bring her family peace, happiness and contentment. Her strength was phenomenal and we are all so proud of her.

Jo's family gratefully acknowledges the medical support provided by Dr. Hayaty and the nurses and medical staff at the Fort St. John Hospital. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the H.H. Foundation, Fort St John Hospital, 8407 - 122 Ave, Fort St John, BC V1J 0J5 will be gratefully appreciated.

On Saturday, July 22, 2017 we celebrated Jo's memory at the Stewart cottage on Charlie Lake.

Services provided by Russ Reynolds and Bow River Funeral Service.