In Loving Memory of Joanne (Punch) Derks. Sunday, August 20th, 2023, at Espanola Nursing Home.
Loving mother of Anne (Jim Furchner), Mike, Janet, Patty-Jo (Kevin Dubien). Cherished Grandmother of Lisa (Bryan Carruthers), Laura (Taylor Wyman), Charles (Stacey Kindt), Krystyn (Patrick Fournier), Ali (Dexter Desjardins), Emily (Randy Lamothe), Tai (predeceased), Dean, Maddison (Wayne Scott), Kylie (Jimmy Pennie) and 5 Great Grandchildren (3 more on the way). Loving sister of Janet (Jerry Vizena). Predeceased by her mother Muriel Punch, former husband Hank Derks and brother Donald Punch. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Joanne graduated from the University of Windsor and then the Marymount School of Nursing in the Class of 1955. She worked at the Sudbury General Hospital in the operating room and the Emergency Department. Then she moved on to become the Director of Ambulance Services. Her final career move came when she joined the Ontario Ministry of Labour to work as an Occupational Health and Safety Officer.
Joanne was an avid volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross, and Sudbury Social Council. She was a Serving Sister of the Order of St. John and 1998 Summer National Games Director. She received many prestigious awards for her volunteer services over many years. She enjoyed volunteering at VCARS.
Joanne loved her family a great deal. She spent countless hours with her grandchildren and was delighted to meet and hold her great grandchildren.
Heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Walford on the Park and the Espanola Nursing Home for the wonderful care and support given to Joanne.
Donations to Red Cross or St John Ambulance would be appreciated.
Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00pm to 5:00pm Saturday, August 26th, 2023, at 517 Regional Road 10 (Panache Rd) Whitefish.
Arrangements entrusted to the Jackson and Barnard Funeral Home. www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com