September 3, 1939 – April 11, 2022
at the age of 82 years:
JoAnne Marjorie Groves departed this life on April 11, 2022. Born in Toronto on September 3rd, 1939, daughter of Charlotte and Bernard Groves (predeceased), she grew up in Toronto and then north of Orillia, Ontario.
Missed by her partner Jack Lewis, Celista, BC, her daughters Heather Dix, Orillia, ON and Melissa (Norm) Hodges, Vancouver, BC, sister Joy Robinson (Rob predeceased), Victoria, BC, brother John Groves (predeceased), grandchildren Jessica (Gavin), Caitlin (Jeff) and Nathan, Nicola, John, Charlie and Elliot and great-grandchildren Hartley, Quinlan, Fallon and Eady. Jack’s children Shelley (Ed) Koski, Revelstoke, BC and Frank Lewis, Celista, BC, Ken Lewis and Mark Lewis, Daysland, AB, grandchildren Karla (Ryan) and David (Tianna), Casey (Amber), Marisa, Connor and Xavier and great-grandchildren Grayson, Ayla, Maya and Otto. Her beloved dog Lucy and her many friends, neighbours and colleagues too numerous to mention, all who brought her joy and regularly gathered at their home on many occasions.
Equal parts feisty, funny, stubborn and smart, Jo was always her own person, pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. After attending Wycliffe College at the University of Toronto, she was an educator, teaching in northern Manitoba, what is now Nunavut and Ontario and eventually, after moving back to Vancouver and earning her B.Ed at the University of British Columbia, taught ESL in Vancouver’s downtown east side and finally at her home of the last 30 years in Celista, BC. Music was an integral part of her life, singing in the choir as a child to performing and directing school and local choirs and barbershop quartets., performing in and directing the Anglebay Entertainers bi-annual Pig and Whistle. She was an active member of Saint David’s Church and the Lakeview Community Centre.
Life wasn’t always easy but she persevered and as a rule kept a positive attitude, never forgetting to laugh and enjoy life. Dancing with Jack brought her joy and it wasn’t unusual for them to drive all over western Canada with friends to attend old time dances. Along the way, she had two girls that she loved fiercely and unconditionally. When her first grandchild was born, she declared she was too young to be a grandma so she was Nana Jo to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family would like to thank the North Shuswap community for their love and support. Cremation has taken place and a celebration “Singing with Jo” will be held on May 29, 2022 from 1pm to 4pm at the Lakeview Community Centre in Anglemont.
If desired, memorial donations to the Lakeview Community Centre or the Kamloops Hospice Society would be appreciated.
Jo and I were friends back in the late 70’s and early 80s. She was a wonderful person. Even though we lost touch I’ve thought of her off and on over the years. I’m so glad that Jo finally found someone to be happy with and live out her life with.
If you read this Melissa I’m so sorry for your loss, I remember you playing The Old Gray Mare on the cello for us as you practiced. I have a number of slides of you, Jo, and her dog Newtie from that time, if you want them please contact me – I’m easy to find on Google, or perhaps this company can pass my email address along to you
Jo is a person who brought Joy and pleasure and comfort to people all her life.
And she was loved, by her friends, people who loved music and dance, and animals and art.
Her wonderful daughters and her partner, Jack, brought peace and love. As her friend, among many friends, I send gratitude.
Thank you all, , with all my heart.
Dear Jack and family, we are so sad to hear that Jo has gone. She was a lovely person, and we so enjoyed spending time with the two of you. Our sincere condolences to you Jack and your family.
Sincerely, Jerry and Beth Ofukany.
Dear JoAnne, I will always remember your smiling eyes, your laugh, your amazing voice (BG’s) and the warmth that surrounded you whenever I met you. My deep condolences to Jack and the family.
Jo was a very special talented lady. She welcomed and encouraged me so much especially in regards to the Anglebay Entertainers. Her smile, devotion and encouragement made you want to do your best. I particularly enjoyed playing for her when she was singing those wonderful songs of yore. Till we meet again in that heavenly choir! Brian and Phyllis
We had a great connection with Joanne for 25+ years. That twinkle in her eye will never be forgotten. Those Angelmont gals really knew how to have ball!
So very sorry to hear of your loss Jack .. our sincere condolences to you and all your family. It was always fun dancing with you, and we loved hearing Jo sing. Take care …
Ann + Ron (Salmon Arm)
Jo, you will be forever in our hearts and forever missed.
Dearest Heather and Melissa
Your mom was a remarkable human. She was blessed with two very special girls!
Sending love and hugs.
Condolences to Jack and family. Jo was a great talented lady had a beautiful voice. Will be missed greatly in the community. Big hugs
Our thoughts are with you.
Bob and Linda Kendall
Gorgeous photo of Jo with that twinkle in her eye. Our thoughts are with you, and especially with Jack. Susan and Harley Lane
Denmark, Western Australia.
Rest In Peace Joanne, My thought and Prayers are with you all! Hope to see you on the 29 of May. Mary Erickson
Jo was a treasure! She contributed a massive amount to the culture of the North Shuswap. Conversation with her ranged over a wide variety of topics, always served up with a side-dish of laughs. I sang with her for years, both in the BG’s and also the Anglebay Entertainers. (not to mention the Pig and Whistle shows, which featured Jo in some amazing performances.) I feel blessed to have known her and will always miss her, especially on April 11th, my birthday. Deep condolences to Jack and the whole family. Love, Deanna Barnhardt Kawatski
We will miss that twinkle in your eye, the magic of your bubbly attitude, and your beautiful voice! You held us together and led us in chorus, got the best out of everyone there! You will be so missed! Our bg hugs go with you!
Jo was a lovely lady always a joy to be around, she will be missed and the Twelve Days of Christmas will never be sung without remembering Jo running from table to table with her instructions on how to gobble or milk cows. we love you Jo and will miss you, Linda and Steve.