Joanne, who battled cancer for several years, passed away on January 7, 2026, in her beloved hometown of Kimberley , British Columbia, surrounded by her children. She is remembered by her two sisters – Myra Krell, (Jim) and Ruth Carlson; her three children – Thera Sandstrom (Jesse), Wilson Westbrook (Shannon) and Katherine Cameron (Carlie); and her six grandchildren – Gracie, Sadie, Lexie and Allie Westbrook, and Tony and Rainier Sandstrom.

After completing high school in Kimberley , Joanne moved to Edmonton, Alberta to finish her nursing degree. She then taught nursing at the college in Castlegar, BC. Once she had her family, she continued her career as a Registered Nurse in oncology at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto for 25 rewarding years.

When she retired, Joanne and her husband, Tony Westbrook, moved to Vancouver Island to enjoy their golden years in the home they built in Fanny Bay. After Tony passed away, Joanne returned to Kimberley to be close to her sisters again.

Joanne’s sense of humour, love for music and dancing, and her infectious laughter were gifts she shared with us these past few years, and they will always be cherished. She will be laid to rest on Sunday, January 18, 2026, back where her life began.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her memory at the Trickle Creek Lodge on January 18th from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

www.markmemorial.com