Joanne Elizabeth Friesen, beloved sister of Bob Richards, Barb Wright, Don Friesen, and twin Dianne Richards, passed away peacefully at home on February 18, 2017, at the age of 56. She is predeceased by her parents, Mabel Matthews (Richards) and Joe Friesen, and two brothers, Gary and Rick Friesen. Born in Calgary, she lived many years in the Annapolis Valley. Intelligent and witty, a compassionate Buddhist, renowned animal lover, talented artist, and out-spoken rights advocate, she will also be missed by her ‘sister’ Sheron, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, friends Dave Hansch and Randal Slatter, and four-legged furry buddies, Tigger, Chuck, Ishtar, and Merlin, to name a few. In lieu of a service, donations may be made to an animal shelter or veterinary clinic. Arrangements have been entrusted to Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main St., (902)-825-3448. Online guestbook may be signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com