We sadly announce the passing of Mary Joan Lehbauer (nee Hart) of Kamloops, BC, on April 28, 2013 at 83 years of age.

"Joanie" passed peacefully in the arms of her true love and devoted husband of 59 years, John Lehbauer. She is survived by brother Frederick Hart and predeceased by sister Elizabeth Reynolds. Also survived by children Rick (Louise), Joanne (Garry), Ella (David) and Jeannie (Jeremy). Grandchildren Lisa, Tina, Stephanie, Tami, Jordan, Joshua, Ashley, Kristina, John and Thomas. We would also like to acknowledge the Merkentrups: Dieter, Brigitte, Sandra and Laura; dear and loving friends, without whom our family would not be complete. Joan was also blessed by many nieces and nephews and numerous great grandchildren.

Joan was born in Portsmouth, England on June 2, 1929. She attended Dalhousie University and then graduated from Royal Columbian Hospital Nursing School in 1951. As a Registered Nurse, Joan was present and worked at the opening of the "Preemie" infant ward at Surrey Memorial Hospital, followed by St. Mary's hospital in New Westminster. She served as Matron of Delta Private Hospital in East Delta, then worked at Delta Hospital until her retirement in 1992.

Saltspring Island, BC was Joan's beloved home away from home. A place to where she would often escape, taking her family with her. There she was loved by her cherished "Nanny" Joyce and husband Andrew Stevens, extended family, Peter and June Stevens, Gwen Ruckle and Ruckle family (all deceased). Surviving friends not to be forgotten are Terry Manuck, Mary Mollett and Eve Lee.

Joan was a talented seamstress. When her children were young she made beautiful matching outfits and as the years wore on, she made dozens of pairs of pajamas for grandchildren and friends. Each year she attended the Salt Spring Island craft fair, selling out of all her handmade crafts and clothing. Joan and John enjoyed fishing, camping, working in their gardens, church activities and bingo. Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren brought Joan so much joy.

Some dear girlfriends of note: Patricia Frisk (partner in crime), Deanna Cleaveland (maid of honor), Dorothy Reid (deceased).

Joan requested that there be no funeral. Her ashes will be scattered at Saltspring Island and there will be a Celebration of her life, to be held in Kamloops, BC, in the near future.