JO-ANN JARDINE

(née HOLMSTROM)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jo-Ann on Friday, September 29, 2023. With Glen, her loving husband of almost 40 years by her side, Jo-Ann moved on to her next journey.

 

Jo-Ann was dedicated to Glen, as he was to her. Glen was a continuous support for Jo-Ann throughout their marriage. The promise that Glen gave to Jo-Ann 40 years ago went well beyond a ring on her finger; it was commitment that never wavered.

 

Her spirit will remain in the hearts of Glen, her sisters Lynnette (Al) and Candy. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law Ken and Ross, and several nieces and nephews. Jo-Ann was predeceased by her mom and dad, Joyce (Preston) and Floyd Holmstrom.

 

Jo-Ann was born in Minnedosa, Manitoba. Mom, Dad, and Jo-Ann moved to Winnipeg when Jo-Ann was an infant, with our family living in the Fort Rouge area.

 

At an early age Jo-Ann showed many athletic talents in swimming, curling and baseball. “Jo” had a well-worn pitching glove and was a natural on the baseball field.

 

Jo-Ann was also artistically gifted, drawing incredible illustrations.  Along with a sketch pencil, she was a darned good cook, making meals in her early teens for the family.  Her specialties included Spanish Rice, Sloppy Joes, and nummy Shepherd’s Pie.

 

Each summer our family would go on holidays to a variety of places across Canada. Jo-Ann enjoyed these special times with her family; camping, swimming, and exploring. Camping was our time together to make hot chocolate in a coffee can over an open fire, picking branches to toast marshmallows, and taking twilight walks into the wilderness. These were memories that brought out Jo-Ann’s wonderful smile.

 

Jo-Ann had a special relationship with her dad. Both Jo-Ann and dad were quiet souls who connected in their chats and going for coffee. Jo-Ann valued dad’s input, insight, and support until his passing.

 

Glen’s niece Donna, introduced Jo-Ann and Glen in August 1981. Their love for each other grew and they were married in December 1983. They would have celebrated their 40th anniversary this year.

 

Throughout their marriage, Jo-Ann and Glen had a love of nature. Jo-Ann and Glen had loads of fun travelling in their Westfalia van. Driving into a site would always attract curious campers who wanted to know more about their “home” on wheels. Their trips took them to many locations – enjoying the beauty of Duck Mountain, Mount Rushmore, Devil’s Tower, Old Faithful, Beartooth Pass, Okanagan Falls, and Niagara Falls. And along the way they always had their dogs with them to enjoy the great outdoors.

 

Jo-Ann simply adored animals. Jo-Ann and Glen had four dogs; Kia, Shonnah, Cody, and Cooper.  Her dogs were her family and she loved them all.

 

Jo-Ann was a caring person and was dedicated to volunteering with Meals on Wheels and other charities. Jo-Ann’s presence of truly caring for others was felt by so many.

 

Jo-Ann loved the simple things in life. Her humble spirit touched our hearts and she will be missed.

 

A special thank you to Glen’s nephew, Ken Ranson and his partner Laura for all their support during this difficult time.

 

Thank you also to the ICU staff at the Grace Hospital for their support and compassion towards Jo-Ann.