It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mom, Joan, who passed away peacefully, at the age of 80, on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, after a brief but courageous battle with lung cancer. In her final days, Joan was comforted by her two devoted daughters, Keri and Jamie, and her two best friends, Corinne and Carol.
Born on December 10, 1943, in Smith, Alberta, Joan was the youngest daughter of Russell Leroy Racher and Florence Racher (née Brown). After graduating from Jasper Place High School in Edmonton, AB, she went on to live an adventurous life filled with love, travel, and a passion for sports. Joan’s love for women’s fastball spanned decades, as she played the game in her youth and while living overseas. Upon returning to Canada in the early 1990s, she reignited her passion by joining a local team in Edmonton. She was also an enthusiastic fan of hockey, curling, ladies’ golf, and Canadian football, always cheering on her favorite teams and players.
Joan was predeceased by her parents, Russell and Florence; her husband, Jack; her siblings: Arnold, Marj, Doug, and Donna; her brother-in-law’s, Lee (Alice) and Bob (Marj); Jack’s sister, Peggy (Gus); nieces, Susan Jones and Karen Gamache; and her childhood best friend, Joyce.
Joan is lovingly remembered by her two devoted daughters, Keri Davediuk of Victoria, BC, and Jamie Davediuk of Edmonton, AB; her sister Alice; and her brother-in-law, Gus. Joan is also survived by the families of her siblings: sister-in-law, Dorothy (Arnold); nephew, Brad (Becky), niece, Sheryl (Jonathan), nephew, Curtis (Luann) along with their families; Alice’s children: Terry (Rhonda) and Linda (Simon) and their families; Marj’s children: Kelly (Ken) and Karen (Garry) and their families; Doug’s children: Kevin (Bonnie) and Jody (Al) and their families; and Peggy and Gus’s son, Brian (Kris).
Joan will be missed by many friends from all over the world, both old and new. She will be especially missed by her dearest friends, Corinne and Carol, with whom she shared a special bond since their preteen years.
Joan will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, playful sense of humor, and deep devotion to her family. Even leading up to her final days, she held onto her quirky nature and youthful spirit, bringing joy to those around her. Her journey through life was rich with experiences, and she leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and love. Although her heart was always in Edmonton, she spent the last nine years of her life in Victoria, BC.
The family would like to recognize and thank the few Island Health staff and care aides who showed outstanding patience, kindness, and compassion during our mom’s final month.
A celebration of life will be held next summer in Edmonton, Alberta. Keri and Jamie welcome those who wish to attend to contact them. They also invite you to share any heartfelt and funny stories in the obituary condolences. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice in Joan’s honor.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Lorraine Lohr Cathro
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Carol Caton I was only in her life a short while and what a beautiful lady she was. Her humour enlightened us all and she certainly had a great way with people. I just want to say her daughters were amazing and whatever mom needed they were there. I will always remember her bright smile and her love for dogs. My heart is with you guys as you navigate this journey without her .Blessings Joan Davediuk…
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Carol Murphy I will miss you in my life dear friend…68 yrs is a long time friendship!
May you now rest in peace , free of pain and with all of your loved ones and also all those beloved dogs that you have had though out your life.❤️
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Jamie It was a delight knowing Joan for the past 7 years. She taught me to never stop striving for a bigger TV and a better recliner. She treated my dogs like her own, and provided endless entertainment with her goofy quirks.
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Sean Brown and family Jamie and Keri,
I adored your Mom, Joan was always good to me. The Brown family sends our deepest condolences. I will always think fondly of Joan and wish I could get one more hug from her!
My sympathy to Joan’s daughters, to Alice and family. Joan was my mother’s cousin. I recall with fondness staying with my Great Uncle Roy, Great Aunt Florence and Joan in Edmonton. Joan took me to one of her ball games, and, for the first time, I saw women playing competitive ball. That encouraged me to continue my participation and love of the game. I also remember laughter and good times when Joan visited my family.