Jo-Anne Maxine Olafson

It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Jo-Anne Olafson, on February 7, 2023 at the age of 72.

She was predeceased by her parents, Joe and Marge Shewchuk, her younger brother Kim and brother-in-law George Richmond.

Jo-Anne will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her partner Alan Anderson; daughter Cynthia (Fidelio), son David (Erin), step-children Tara (Cam) and Matthew (Amii), grandchildren Wil (Cheryl), Christy (Kyle), Zoë (Mario), Elyssa, Kianna, Adam, Paige and Everett; great grandchildren Malcolm, Jacob, Lillian and Liló; her siblings Wendy, Wayne (Sandy), Peggy (Hugh), Marlene (Pete), Herbie (Muriel) and Michelle (Allen) along with numerous nieces,  nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Jo-Anne was born April 8, 1950, the oldest of the eight children.  She and her siblings enjoyed many great adventures on the family farm near Bankend, Saskatchewan.  In 1983, she moved to Winnipeg, Manitoba where she began a career as a Quality Control Technician for Phillips Temro. She retired from New Flyer Industries at the age of 63.

Jo-Anne was an avid reader, enjoyed gardening, and bird watching (hummingbirds in particular). Spending time with her family was important to Jo-Anne; her grandchildren fondly remember camping and making crafts with their Amma. She and her partner loved to travel, taking long road trips throughout Canada, the United States and winter holidays in Mexico and Barbados.

The family extends their appreciation and thank you to all the staff of Rest Haven Nursing Home 3^rd Floor – Freedom Meadows for their kindness and compassionate care of Jo-Anne during her stay.

Her Celebration of Life will be held on February 25, 2023 at Bethel Baptist Church, 205 Roseberry Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba everyone is welcome to come and go between 1 and 4 pm. In lieu of flowers, kindly donate to the Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba.