Born in Vancouver, only daughter of Francis Newton and Blossom (Helen Mary Louise Chantler) Turner and sister of Anthony Aubrey (Tony).  Joan grew up in Kerrisdale, attending St Anthony’s College and Magee Secondary.  She studied occupational therapy at the University of Toronto and worked at Shaughnessy and Veteran’s Hospital in Victoria. She married  Michael Finnis on October 7, 1950 at St. Mary’s Kerrisdale and they lived in Victoria prior to moving to Olympia, Washington in 1960 where Joan was a busy mother and an active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church.  Upon the family’s return to Victoria in 1972, Joan was very active at Christ Church Cathedral as president of the Chancel Guild.  One of the ways of putting her faith into action was by preparing and delivering sandwiches for the street ministry for a number of years.

She also volunteered with Hi We Care and the Victoria Boys Chorus and enjoyed helping friends and neighbours with shopping.  She loved gardening, enjoyed weaving and doing arts and craft projects with her grandchildren. Despite the difficult journey with her dementia, Joan always retained her cheery disposition.  Predeceased by her older brother in 1991 and her husband in 2015.  Survived by sons David (Kathy Millar) and Mark; grandchildren Daniel, Stephen, Kathryn, Tristan and Emily; niece Helen (Rob) and grand niece Samantha.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Glenwarren Lodge and Joan’s long time physician, Dr. Gary Nielsen.

“Grannie’s” courage and grace was an inspiration to us all and she will be deeply missed.

Memorial service to be held on Saturday, February 11 at 1pm at Christ Church Cathedral.   Interment in Cathedral Columbarium at a later date.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

 

  • Elaine

    Although I only had the opportunity to see her occasionally, Mrs. Finnis’ friendliness, grace, and dignity were always evident.

  • Eleanor BOWERMAN

    Sincere condolences to Joan Finnis’ family and friends. Joan was a blessing to Hi We Care and to me personally. She enjoyed and had fun volunteering with Hi We Care. At one time she was Secretary of the Board. We will all really miss her.

  • Athalie Vaughan

    So sad to hear the news. I will always remember how friendly and kind she was to me when I first arrived in Victoria. Athalie and Bill.

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