In Memory of Joleen Brandl
(April 21, 1937-November 1, 2016)
Joleen Ann Brandl passed away Tuesday, November 1, 2016, at the age of 79, beloved mother of Beth, Linda, and Paula. Joleen was born at Pincher Creek, Alberta, on April 21, 1937, to Fred and Josie Higginbotham. She grew up on her parent’s ranch, north of Pincher Station, with her younger brothers Earl and Lorne.
Joleen met Roger Brandl, who she married on September 13, 1958. They spent the first years of their marriage living in the small communities of Pincher Creek, Bragg Creek, and Sparwood, following the work on the drilling rigs. Beth and Linda were born during this time. In 1962, opportunities arose in Northern British Columbia, so they packed up their young family and headed north, settling in Fort St. John, BC. In 1963, Paula arrived and the family was complete.
Joleen and Roger purchased the Royalite Service Station and Café in 1967, which they ran until it burned down in December of 1968. The following year they began construction on Mackenzie Tire, and ran a successful automotive business together. Roger was in charge of the shop, while Joleen managed the front end and did the books, until they sold the business in 1980.
Joleen is predeceased by her mother Josephine, father Fred, and brother Lorne. She is survived by her brother Earl (Gloria) Higginbotham, sister-in-law Faye Irving, Daughters Beth (Steve) Schulte, Linda (Mike) Maisonneuve, and Paula (Larry) London; Grandchildren Justin Loubert, Sheena (Brent) Taillefer, Ryan Kearns, Carline Kraeleman, Kaylie (Colin) Bowler, Torey Maisonneuve, Colbi Maisonneuve, Nicholas Maisonneuve, and Tyler Schulte; Great-grandchildren Wyatt, Maizy, Hank, and Hazel.
Joleen will be sadly missed by those who knew and loved her.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the B.C. Lung Association.
Special thank you to Dr. Watt and the nurses at the Fort St. John Hospital.