AUSTAD, Joan Martha Pauline Liemen
October 19, 1927 – January 23, 2010
With great sadness, we announce the passing of Joan M.P. Austad on January 23, 2010. Joan was born October 19, 1927 in Eburne, BC to Edmund and Helen Liemen (née Fielhauber). A free-spirited, fun-loving girl, she and her siblings enjoyed a happy childhood in Lulu Island, Richmond. She went on to train as an RN at St. Paul’s hospital, graduating in 1952. Deeply caring and truly compassionate, she was perfectly suited to nursing and through her career, she nursed at St. Paul’s, the University of Alberta and finally at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Comox until her retirement in 1990.
She was a devoted mother and doting grandmother and a great friend to many, especially her nursing pals. She saw and celebrated the goodness in everyone and was arguably the best mother-in-law anyone could wish for. A prolific letter writer, she loved adventure, laughter, gardening and a well-kept house. Her generosity and kindness were legendary. She is greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to know and be loved by her.
Joan was predeceased by her parents, brothers Henry and Emil and sisters: Louise, Lorraine, Frieda and Margaret and former husband John. Her memory is cherished by her “Three Gems”: daughter Greta and sons John and Erik (Trish); grandchildren Mason, Sarah (Karry), Devin, Veronica, Owen and Hunter and great-grandson Austin; also by sister Helen Symmers and her family. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A reception will be held Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 1:00pm at Crown Isle Resort, Courtenay.