Obituary of Joan Elizabeth Bowness

Joan Elizabeth Bowness (née Ritchie) was a beloved wife, mother, Nana, sister and friend. She passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, surrounded by her family’s love. Her warmth, wisdom, and generous spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

 

Joan shared a lifetime of love with her devoted husband, Allison Wayne Bowness. From a chance meeting at the University of Guelph leading to marriage in 1967, their enduring partnership was an inspiration to many. Together in Cannington, they raised three daughters—Anita (Allen Hicks), Sheila (John DeBoer), and Jana (Nelson Fresco)—and welcomed five granddaughters: Allison, Cara, Bailey, Shannon, and Erin. Joan’s passion for learning, sense of adventure, and determination lives on in them.

 

Born in Elmvale, Ontario on June 11, 1948, Joan was the eldest child of the late Hugh and Margaret Ritchie. She grew up surrounded by her close-knit siblings: Cheryl (late Art) VanLaarhoven, Susan Harrop (Roger), Glen (Barb), Doug (Noreen), and Lisa Goodfellow (Wayne). The Ritchie Clan that extends to many nieces and nephews shares a bond that brought much love to Joan throughout her life—and comfort in her final days.

 

Family remained central throughout Joan’s life, including regular visits to Al’s childhood home in Montrose, Prince Edward Island. She is lovingly remembered by her sisters-in-law Lynda Leard (Alan), Evelyn Ramsey, and Revada Bowness, and by the families of all of Al’s siblings—both those still with us and those who have passed: George, Dorothy, Marie, Lois, Keith, Herbert, Byron, and Doreen.

 

A passionate educator and lifelong learner, Joan shaped many young lives through her teaching career. After retiring from the Durham District School Board and a move to Port Perry, she continued serving her communities through the Brock Township Public Library and Community Care Durham. Whether planning her next travel adventure, hosting a house full of guests, or relaxing at the family cottage on Haliburton Lake, Joan brought energy and enthusiasm to all she did. Her gatherings were legendary, her friendships deep, and her love for life contagious.

 

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Ocular Oncology Clinic at Princess Margaret Hospital for over 20 years of compassionate care, as well as the staff at Amica Taunton and the Home Instead PSW team for their support in Joan’s final days.

 

A celebration of Joan’s life will be held on Sunday, July 6, 2025, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at Trillium Trails (53 Snowridge Court, Oshawa) with a short service at 2:00 p.m. Please wear your brightest colours in honour of our vibrant redhead. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Care Durham or Oak Ridges Hospice of Durham. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.waggfuneralhome.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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