ANNA JOAN BENNETT
Joan Bennett (nee Andrews) passed away peacefully in Toronto, on November 21, 2022, following a courageous four-year battle with MDS/Leukemia. Jack, her partner and devoted husband of 63 years, was by her side. In her 93rd year, Joan lived a full and blessed life. She will be forever cherished for her warmth, curiosity, generosity, tenacity, and sense of fun.
She was daughter to G. Loring and Anna Andrews (Aldred) and loving sister to Patricia McLachlin. She was beloved wife to John (Jack) Bennett, loving mother to Bruce and Joann, and dear mother-in-law to Brett. She was proud and devoted Nana to Jeremy, Hanna, Julia, and Phoebe.
Joan was born on April 24, 1929, in Middleton Nova Scotia and remained a fiercely proud Maritimer throughout her life. She attended, and remained loyal to, Acadia University where she had “loads of fun” and honed her athletic skills on every team available. She moved to Toronto in the mid 1950s where she met Jack. They built an adventurous life together, lived in 17 different homes, and shared a devotion to family and community.
Joan worked in the investment industry and maintained an ongoing interest in financial matters. She also embraced many hobbies including horseback riding, skiing, weaving, spinning, knitting, gardening and was an avid reader – always looking for her next book. Joan actively and generously contributed to the community as a volunteer in many roles at: University Women’s Club, Girl Guides, Toronto Guild of Spinners and Weavers, Acadia University Alumni, Bayview United Church, and the Toronto Camera Club. She and Jack - both award-winning and prolific photographers - shared many treasured good times and adventures with photography friends. They travelled to 43 countries and loved to share their stories and photos.
Joan lived her whole life with energy and warmth, she was always up for new adventures, a good laugh, and a vivid story. She loved connecting with people and she treasured (and was treasured by) her family and friends.
We are very grateful to all the staff at Sunnybrook Hospital, particularly Dr. Rena Buckstein and the C606 team, for their care and support during Joan’s illness. Joan will return “home” to rest in Nova Scotia; a celebration of her life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Red Cross, Sunnybrook Hospital, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.mountpleasantgroup.com