In Celebration of

Joan Glennie Marando (née Townsend)

June 24, 1929 -  June 3, 2021

Joan Glennie Marando (née Townsend) passed away quietly in her sleep Thursday, June 03, 2021, three weeks shy of her 92nd birthday. She succumbed to the ravages of Alzheimer’s. A most loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Joan is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years, Frank; her children, Michael (Delta), Lisa (John), Frank, Jr. (Barbara), Stephen, Bonita; her grandchildren, Julian, Adam, Alex, Wade, Katia; her sister Madeleine Cranston; and numerous nieces and nephews, with whom she shared an enviable closeness.

The youngest of twelve children born to John and Isobel Townsend of Hamilton, Joan had an unwavering love of music and dance, and a wondrous soprano voice. She sang semi-professionally with the renowned Leslie Bell Singers. Their angelic voices were heard coast-to-coast on their weekly CBC Radio show, at out-of-town performances, and at regular appearances at the CNE Bandshell. In keeping with her love of singing, Joan shared her exquisite voice at many weddings, funerals and Sunday church masses. She later performed with the Mississauga Choral Society and Clarkson Music Theatre.

Joan was a dedicated Catholic, serving as Choir Director for St. Mary Star of the Sea parish and as a member of the Catholic Women’s League. Prior to marriage, in the 50’s, Joan held head- office secretarial positions at Woodward’s Department Store, Abitibi Power and Paper, and Eaton’s Department Store. After 20 years as homemaker, she worked as a secretary for the Dufferin-Peel Catholic Separate School Board, retiring from St. David of Wales Separate School in 1993.

Joan’s family wishes to thank the caring, dedicated staff of Cawthra Gardens Long-Term Care Facility, which Joan called “home” for the past four years. Their tender professionalism has been a blessing.

Joan, and her fun-loving, ever-thoughtful ways, will be missed dearly by all and forgotten by none.

May “flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!”

Guestbook 

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Nick and Jackie Tassone (Friends)

Entered June 10, 2021 from St. Albert, Alberta

Bonita and family. Sending love and prayers. Keeping you in our thoughts ❤️

Joan Cranston (Niece)

Entered June 10, 2021 from Norris Point NL

So sorry to hear of Joan's passing; happy to hear it was peaceful. This is hard at any time but especially so during a pandemic. my heart goes out to all of the family. Joan was one of our favorite aunts - she was so young and glamourous and beautiful (like all the Townsend women)!
Take care, and we look forward to seeing you when circumstances allow.
Joanie Cranston, Gary Wilton, Peter Cranston, Rebecca Wilton

Michael Baker (Friend)

Entered June 10, 2021 from Burlington

She will be missed

Karen Doughty (Friend)

Entered June 11, 2021 from Fergus Ontario

To the family I wish my condolences Joan was a shining star Remembering the sing alongs at cawthra gardens drinking pretend wine and eating cheesies My heart goes out to you frank and Bonita. She will be missed.

MaryAnn Marlatt-Dennis (friend)

Entered June 11, 2021 from Brampton

What a loving and beautiful story of Joan's life. I was fortunate to have attended her wedding to Frank many years ago, as Frank was one of my brother Nick's good friends. I am sure her memory will be cherished by not only Frank but her family, may God bless you all. MaryAnn (Van Berkel) Marlatt-Dennis

Photos 

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