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December 2, 1946 - October 23, 2021
It is with great sadness and heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved Mom, Grandmother and friend, Joan Elaine O'Brien. Joan passed away peacefully on Saturday October 23rd at the age of 74 with her family by her side at her home in Tappen.
Joan was born in Hanna, AB on December 2nd 1946 to proud parents Roderick and Ruth McDonald. She spent her childhood in Hanna with her siblings Judy, Bill and Jim before relocating with her family to Salmon Arm.
In 1967, Joan married Daniel Thomas O'Brien and became a mother to six children. Joan spent her lifetime supporting and committing to many community events and groups. Joan was involved in 4-H for over 40 years and taught many children how to sew. She was a director for the Tappen Co-Op, Salmon Arm Fair and Carlin Hall Association. Joan played a huge role at the Carlin Hall and she organized many events and baked for the numerous Coffee Houses. Over the years, she has dedicated endless hours volunteering her time with both the Tappen Co-Op and Salmon Arm Fair.
Family meant the world to Joan and we will cherish the many memories we had together. Joan was predeceased by her parents Roderick and Ruth McDonald, husband Daniel O'Brien and sister Judy Swaren. Joan is survived by her children Lorraine (Matt) Thomas, Irene (Daniel Schwartz) O'Brien, Karen (Adrian) Bubola, Colleen (Greg) Paetsch, Heather (Michele Weber) O'Brien, Geoff (Heather) O'Brien. She will be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren Nicole (Coltan), Jared (Cassidy), Joel (Noelle), Kierra, Mikaela (Jesse), Danielle, Abbi, Riley, Drew, Wyatt, Connor, Hailey and great-grandchild Luke. Joan is also survived by her two brothers Bill (Betty-Ann) and Jim (Joan) along with numerous relatives, friends and neighbours. Joan will be sadly missed by all who knew her. We will never forget all the memories we made with you. We love you!
A private family service will be held from the Chapel of Bowers Funeral Home.Joan will be laid to rest at the Tappen Cemetery. Joan fought a courageous battle against chronic lung conditions, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the British Columbia Lung Association. A celebration of life to honour Joan will be organized by her family at a future date.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Richard Currie and Kathy Jacobs for their dedicated compassion, commitment, and care over the years.
Online condolences may be sent to Joan's family through her obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com


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