Venner, Joanne Elizabeth (MacDonald) – Died January 23, 2011 in Truro. Born November 12, 1942 in Advocate and raised in Joggins by loving parents, Joanne was the first in her family to attend university, receiving a Bachelor of Arts from Mount Allison University in 1964. Summer work took her to Jasper Park Lodge where she met her future husband Michael Venner. Outside of a short stint in Ottawa where she worked with the Canadian Union of Students, Western Canada would remain her home until the 1990s. Living in Edmonton, Saskatoon and White Rock, BC, Joanne made her mark on each location with her volunteer work, entertaining and with the many friends who blessed her lifetime. Joanne had a unique gift for making friends and evoked
community wherever she lived. In Edmonton she established herself as a popular caterer with her company Venerable Feast which travelled with Joanne to her various homes. In 1993 she and her husband, a trustee in bankruptcy, moved back to Nova Scotia where they set up Venner and Associates. She worked as office manager for the business until it was sold in 2006. Joanne had been actively involved in the Newcomers Club since she first moved to Saskatoon in 1984. Upon arrival in Truro, she discovered no such organization so she quickly set about establishing a successful club. In recent years her hobbies have included Mahjong, gathering with friends and swimming in the Northumberland Strait. Joanne is survived by her daughters Ellen Venner-Hiltz (Dr. Gregory Hiltz) and Megan Venner (WO Scott Beeston), by beloved grandchildren Carter, Madeline, Griffin and Broden Hiltz; and Samantha, Isaac and Eric Beeston. She is also survived by her birth mother, Beth McGillis (Hicks); half-siblings Jack McGillis and Karen Moscaluck. She was predeceased by her husband of 38 years Michael Venner, her parents Irving and Dorothy MacDonald and her in-laws Albert and Marjorie Venner. Visitation was held in Colchester Community Funeral Home, 512 Willow Street, Truro from 7 – 9 pm on Thursday, January 27th and an open floor was offered at 8 pm for anyone who wished to share fond memories or thoughts of Joanne. A memorial service was held at St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 23 Church Street, Truro on Saturday, January 29th at 2 pm and a reception followed. If desired, donations may be made to the Colchester-East Hants Community Hospice Society (902)893-3265 or a charity of choice. On-line condolences may be made at www.colchestercommunity.com