Tribute

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of JoAnne Stewart Zakall, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, who passed away on February 11, 2025, at the age of 78.
JoAnne will be missed. She was full of love, had an incredible sense of humor, a warm heart, a generous spirit, and an unwavering dedication to her family.

JoAnne Zakall was born on September 4, 1946, in Duncan, British Columbia, the daughter of James and Francis Wilson. JoAnne married her high school sweetheart, Stanley, and together they shared 60 wonderful years filled with hard work, love, laughter, and adventure. They were blessed with 5 children, 17 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. JoAnne is survived by her children James (Debbie); Kevin (Annette); David (Sonya) and Brian (Simone); grandchildren Jerald (Kayla); Meghan (Jeremiah); Shane; Kyle; Brett; Amber (Liam); Treven; Katharyn (Garrett); Talon; Maia; Kessa; Carter; Carson; Kaden and Helena; and great-grandchildren Evelyn; Avacyn; Liam; Beckett; Owen; Caleigh; Noah and Maddox.
Joanne is preceded in death by her husband Stanley, daughter Shelley, grandchildren Sarah and Aidan and sister Marlene Smith.
JoAnne’s favourite memories come from spending time on Vancouver Island and being by the ocean. She ran the concession stand at the Oliver arena while her boys were playing minor hockey. Later she worked for Beaver Lodge as a caregiver. JoAnne spent many summers, with the assistance of her children and grandchildren cooking for hockey camps. She enjoyed spending time with her special friends playing bingo, going on casino trips and travelling.

A celebration of life will be held at the family home at 2:00 pm on May 10, 2025.

JoAnne’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who provided compassionate care during her final days.

She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on.