Obituary of Bertha May Joan Austin

AUSTIN – Bertha May “Joan” (nee Childs)

October 26, 1933 – December 13, 2019

With profound sadness, Joan passed away on December 13, 2019 in her 87^th year at her son’s home with her daughter by her side.  She is predeceased by her parents John and Mabel Childs, her younger brother Maurice, her older sister Marie and her husband Donald Austin.  Survived by her sister Phyllis and her brother Robert (Bob) and sister-in-law Barbara Childs.  Joan was a caring mother of Dale and Melody Austin-Wood (Jim) and doting grandmother of Bethany, Jocelyn (John) and Karlyn Wood.  She was fondly remembered by her nieces and nephews.  Joan was born on October 26, 1933 in Orillia, Ontario.  She resided in Sebright, Ontario on the family farm.  Joan moved to North Bay in 1952 to attend North Bay’s Teacher College.  She met her future husband Don in North Bay and later was married in 1953.  Joan taught for several years in the North Bay area before joining her husband as an office manager at Don Austin Real Estate Limited.  They were happily married for 58 years before her husband’s passing in July 2011.  She was a life time member of Trinity United Church for 60 years and an active member of the UCW.  Joan cherished the time spent with her children, grandchildren and friends.  She enjoyed reading and travelling.  Special thanks to the staff of Paramed including PSW’s and nurses, Dr. Spencer, Dr. Kesty, Dr. Dougall, Dr. Kularni for their attentive care. Friends may call at the Martyn Funeral Home on Saturday, December 21, 2019 from 2 – 4 & 7 – 9 pm. A graveside service will be held at North Bay Union Cemetery in the spring of 2020.  In memory of Joan, donations will be kindly accepted to Trinity United Church Roof Refurbishment Fund.  Online condolences may be offered at www.martynfh.com.