Our family is deeply saddened to announce that Joan Mary Ellen Meyer has completed her life’s journey on September 14, 2026.

Joan was born to John and Isabel Bowie in Trail, BC. She grew up in the Sunningdale area with many lifelong friends including Liz and Ken Forsyth. From a young age she showed a special talent for figure skating. Later in life, she shared this passion with her granddaughter Michelle.

Joan was a dedicated educator. She graduated from Notre Dame Teaching University in Nelson. She then began her teaching career in Merritt before moving to Kimberley in 1968. There she taught every grade from kindergarten through grade 12. While she could teach any subject, she excelled at teaching English. She also served as principal at Meadowbrook Elementary for many years, where she guided the education of countless youngsters. Joan ended her career running Selkirk’s ESL program, where she not only taught students who were new to Canada to become proficient English speakers, but also introduced them to Canadian culture. Joan was instrumental in bringing the International School to the East Kootenays.

Joan met the love of her life, George Meyer, while in Nelson. They were soon married and shared fifty wonderful years together. Joan enjoyed the many cruises she took with George and shared in his love of the outdoors, but she especially delighted in supporting the countless adventures of George and their son John. While George and John spent their weekends snowmobiling, trapping, or fishing, Joan would always ensure that all those adventures could happen.

The light of Joan’s life was her grandchildren, Thomas and Michelle. Nothing brought her more joy than seeing George playing with them and sharing his love of the outdoors. She was so proud seeing Thomas and his papa arrive home with a fish they had caught or watching Michelle panning for gold during their many trips to Fort Steele.

Joan leaves behind her son, John (Sue), and two grandchildren, Thomas and Michelle. Joan was predeceased by her loving husband, George. Joan was a strong believer in the statement, “friends are the family you choose.” Joan leaves behind a long, and lovely list of friends who were family.

Joan will be joined with George in the Kimberley Cemetery in a private Graveside Service. A Celebration of Life for Joan will take place on Saturday October 17, 2026 at 1pm at McPherson Funeral Home in Kimberley B.C. The Service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person, please click the following link to view: https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/joan-meyer-celebration-of-life

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the BCSPCA or STARS Air Ambulance.

Dear Mom and Nana, thank you for supporting all our interests. You can now rest in peace with Dad.

mcphersonfh.com