Joan Betty Birimcombe

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our “Mom” Joan Betty Birimcombe (nee Clark), born January 9, 1935, in Kirkland Lake Ontario, and passed away at Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie February 14, 2024, after a brief battle with a rare lung disease.

Joan was the wife of the late Russell Birimcombe of Midhurst, mother to Ruby DiLuca (Mario), Rebecca Sisco (Jeff), Cindy Payne, Nancy Cole, and Rusty Birimcombe. Stepmom to Douglas Birimcombe, and Dale Birimcombe (Loretta). Grandmother of 15 Grandchildren Jason, Jenny, and Mark Di Luca, Kelly and the Late Frank Basta, Jodi and Dawn Kenney, Bob and Mandy Cole, Rustin, Nicholas and Gracie Birimcombe, Johnathon Birimcombe, Nicole, Kari, and Christopher Birimcombe. Great grandmother of 17 great grandchildren and Great Great Grandmother to Bodhi. Sister to the late Mary Klemm and surviving younger sister Nancy (Don) Salmonds. Aunt to many nieces and nephews, special Auntie to Jo Anne (Ken) Joseph.

Joan grew up in Northern Ontario and Scarborough. She married Russ and they made their home with their children in Barrie and Midhurst. Joan and Russ were involved in HASC (Historical Automobile Society of Canada). They enjoyed travelling to yearly car meets in Hershey Pennsylvania, and around Ontario in their motorhome.  Going to Alaska was a major highlight in their lives. When Russ passed away, she moved to Barrie where she stayed in her own home right up until her last months. She had wonderful neighbours in Lisa and Andy Robertson, that were so loving and helpful to her. She also enjoyed Irene Cole’s company as a great friend for many years, and the community of Midhurst United Church.

Joan was a stay-at-home mom for many years. She was an avid reader, enjoyed her word search and The Wheel of Fortune. She loved being surrounded by her family especially the “little ones”. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

The family would like to thank all the wonderful doctors and nurses that cared for Joan in her final months. Special thanks to Dr. Bushy and the 3rd floor respiratory staff. Many thanks to the Waterford retirement residence, especially Kesha, for her loving care.

May she eternally Rest In Peace among the butterflies and blue forget me nots, that she dearly loved. She will be missed by all. Hope she’s up there instructing the angels in heaven and solving The Wheel puzzles ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Donations to the Royal Victoria Hospital or a charity of your choice are welcomed in her honour.