Obituary of Joan Northcott

Brenda "Joan" Northcott
September 16, 1946 – April 5, 2025
 

Our hearts are broken to share that after a short illness, Joan Northcott (nee Cluett), beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in the Palliative Care Unit at Western Health on Saturday, April 5th. She was a remarkable woman, known for her devotion to her predeceased husband, Joe Northcott, her unconditional love of her family, commitment to her community, and unwavering faith. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories. 
 

An incredible mother, Joan will be deeply missed by her daughters, Sandra (Allan Brent MacIsaac) Northcott and Diane (Michael) Walker. She was the adored “Nana” of Heather, Andrew, Katie, and Joseph. She also leaves to mourn her sister Sandra (the late Harold) Northcott, brothers Clayton (Pat) and Derrick (Bonnie) Cluett, brother-in-laws Brian (the late Bernadette) McCormack , David (Carol Anne) Northcott  and Murray (the late Loretta) Payne, sister-in-laws Mary (the late Mike) McCarthy, Patricia (the late Jim) Northcott and Doreen (the late Kevin) Northcott.  She was predeceased by her parents, Everett and Myrtle Cluett, her father and mother-in-law, Matthew and Sarah Northcott and her sister Anne (Bud) Wiseman. She will be lovingly remembered by a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 
 

Joan lived with passion and purpose. Throughout her life she dedicated her time to several community endeavors, including active involvement in the Catholic Women’s League (CWL), Girl Guides of Canada, and the Children’s Liturgy Program.  Over the years, we have had numerous adults share their stories of how they remembered her kindness and patience when they were a child.  Joan’s incredible sense of humour always had her friends and family laughing. There wasn’t a game of cards or shared meal left untouched by her laughter and smiles. Her grandchildren will miss losing to her in Scat and Scrabble, and will cherish every game they played. Joan was always ready with sound advice and a listening ear whenever they needed it, and it is from her that her family has learned what it means to love, and to be loved, unconditionally. Joan’s love of quilting and sewing brought her joy as she lovingly crafted beautiful pieces for family and friends. While she is gone, these will be a small part of her legacy of love and patience.  For her daughter Diane, it will be the memories of sharing their love of quilting that will be most treasured. 
 

Joan cherished her friendships, maintaining an incredible circle of friends for over 50 years. Her Wednesday evenings were treasured, spent in their company over a game of poker—a tradition that brought joy and laughter. She was proud to be an original member of the Humber Valley Golf Course, a bowler and an avid walker.  All of these activities she loved to share with that same group of fantastic women.   

When she knew her time with us was limited, she would often share how grateful she was to those that took the time to visit, call, and write. Ultimately, Joan strived to live a life of love and purpose and those kind gestures gave her peace as she prepared to join the love of her life, Joe, in Heaven.  There is no doubt they are now both together, free of pain and joined for eternity. 
 

Joan was thankful to amazing friends for their support over the years, and we extend a special thank you to Gary and Velda Cassell, Chris and Dianne Alexander, Brian McCormack, and Janet Cluett for only ever being a phone call away regardless of the time of day or night. In addition, her family would like to thank all of the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff that have taken such incredible care of her over these past two months.

Friends are invited to join the family at Fillatre’s Funeral Home, 10 Clinic Drive, on Tuesday, April 8th from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm. The Rosary will be said at 8 pm. Joan’s Funeral Mass will take place at Immaculate Conception Parish on Wednesday, April 9th at 10:30 am with Father Anthony Anh officiating. As an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joan’s memory to the Deer Lake Regional Food Bank and Western Regional Hospital Foundation.